Washington Targets Chinese Ceramic Abrasive Grains in Subsidy Case
Published Date: 5/22/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Department of Commerce found that Chinese makers of sol gel alumina-based ceramic abrasive grains got unfair government help in 2023. Because of this, the U.S. plans to add extra taxes (countervailing duties) on these products to keep things fair for American businesses. This decision starts on May 22, 2025, and companies can share their thoughts before it’s final.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
165.05% Countervailing Duty Rate
Commerce preliminarily assigned an estimated countervailable subsidy rate of 165.05 percent ad valorem to named Chinese producers/exporters of sol gel alumina-based ceramic abrasive grains and to “All Others.” This rate is listed in the preliminary determination published May 22, 2025.
Suspension of Liquidation and Cash Deposits
Beginning with entries entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after May 22, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will suspend liquidation of subject merchandise and require a cash deposit equal to the preliminary rates shown (165.05%).
Scope Covers Grains Even in Downstream Goods
The investigation covers sol gel alumina-based ceramic abrasive grains whether sold alone or incorporated into downstream articles (e.g., abrasive papers, grinding wheels); when incorporated, only the sol gel alumina-based ceramic abrasive grains component is covered by the scope.
Adverse Facts Available Led to Assigned Rates
Commerce preliminarily applied facts available with an adverse inference (AFA) because respondents and the Government of China did not provide requested information; the rates for individually examined companies are based on that AFA and are shown as 165.05 percent.
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Key Dates
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