Ineos launches 10 anti-dumping probes to protect EU PVC, ABS production

LONDON – London-based chemicals giant Ineos has submitted 10 anti-dumping complaints to the European Commission, aiming to curb what it describes as unfair imports of PVC, ABS, and polyolefins from the United States, Asia, and the Middle East. 

The filings, announced this week, target specific producers accused of selling these essential plastics materials below market value, which Ineos claims endangers jobs and production facilities across Europe.

The complaints cover a range of products critical to industries including sustainable packaging, automotive parts, and construction. 

PVC, widely used in flexible films and bottles, faces threats from low-cost shipments originating in China and the UAE, with volumes exceeding 500,000 metric tons annually. 

ABS, a durable resin for molded goods like protective casings, draws scrutiny on imports from South Korea and Saudi Arabia, totaling around US$450 million in value last year. 

Polyolefins, such as polyethylene for recyclable pouches and polypropylene for rigid containers, are highlighted in cases against U.S. and Indian suppliers, where dumped volumes have surged by 25% since 2023.

In a statement, Ineos Group CEO Jim Ratcliffe explained the urgency behind the actions. “These imports, priced at up to 30% under fair value, are forcing European plants to idle lines and cut shifts,” he said. 

The company estimates the influx has already led to US$1.2 billion in lost sales for EU producers over the past two years, with potential factory closures looming if unchecked.

The European Commission now has 45 days to decide whether to initiate formal investigations, which could result in provisional duties of 10-50% on the implicated goods. 

Ineos officials noted that similar past cases have restored balance, allowing reinvestment in eco-friendly upgrades like bio-based additives for PVC to reduce plastic waste.

In October 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Sabic announced a US$2.5 billion expansion of its polyolefins plant in Jubail, focusing on high-density polyethylene for export markets, including Europe.

The project, set to add 1 million tons of capacity by 2027, intensifies competitive pressures on EU manufacturers already grappling with energy costs 40% higher than regional rivals.

Ineos emphasized that the complaints do not seek to block all imports but ensure compliance with World Trade Organization rules.

 “We support global supply chains that play by the rules, so European innovation in circular packaging can thrive,” added Ineos styrenics head Mike Rechiutti in a briefing. 

The firm, which operates 20 plants in Europe employing 15,000 people, plans to monitor the Commission’s response closely.

Stakeholders in sustainable packaging welcome the move, as stable resin prices enable shifts toward recycled content. 

One packaging converter in Germany reported that volatile imports have delayed adoption of 50% post-consumer resin in bottle production. 

If successful, these cases could stabilize supply and foster investments in low-carbon alternatives, keeping European output competitive.

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