 "Representational image. File image/ Reuters")
The Malaysian government has imposed provisional anti-dumping tariffs ranging from 6.33% to 37.44% on imports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a synthetic fibre originating in China and Indonesia.
The action is part of a preliminary finding after a petition filed by domestic maker Recron (M) Sdn Bhd, which claimed that PET imports from China and Indonesia were being sold at rates lower than their domestic market value, causing severe harm to Malaysia’s local sector.
The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (Miti), which launched an inquiry in August 2024, said it discovered enough evidence to support the most recent steps.
The provisional duties take effect on Tuesday, January 7, and will last for up to 120 days, awaiting the final determination, which is expected to be published by May 6, 2025.
In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry said that “interested parties, such as importers, foreign producers/exporters and associations related to the investigation, are welcome to provide comments or views on the report of the preliminary determination to Miti by Jan 17, 2025, 5.30pm.”
PET is a strong, rigid synthetic fibre and resin that belongs to the polyester family of polymers. It is utilised in textile fabrics, liquid and food containers, thermoforming for manufacturing, and engineering resins when combined with glass fibre.