U.S. Announces 93.5% Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Battery Material Imports

Washington, July 18, 2025: The United States has imposed a preliminary anti-dumping duty of 93.5% on imports of graphite, a key material used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, from China, intensifying trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

The announcement came from the U.S. Commerce Department on Thursday following an investigation triggered by a petition filed late last year by the American Active Anode Material Producers, an industry coalition representing U.S.-based graphite manufacturers.

The petition alleged that Chinese producers were exporting graphite at unfairly low prices, undermining U.S. manufacturers. As a result, the Commerce Department initiated an anti-dumping investigation, covering active anode material — whether or not included in finished batteries.

A final determination on the tariff is expected by early December.

Graphite, especially in its active anode form, plays a critical role in battery production, particularly for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. China dominates the global supply chain for this material, controlling a significant portion of the world’s graphite refining capacity.

The move could send ripples through the global EV industry, potentially raising production costs for automakers that rely on Chinese materials for battery manufacturing.

This development follows other trade actions by Washington targeting clean energy and raw material imports. Earlier this year, the U.S. also imposed restrictions on solar panel components from Southeast Asia, citing similar anti-dumping concerns.

The action is part of the Biden administration’s broader strategy to secure domestic supply chains and reduce reliance on foreign-controlled raw materials, especially those critical to green technologies and national security.

Separately, under the return of President Donald Trump to the White House in January, the administration has reinstated and expanded sector-specific tariffs, including a 50% duty on steel and aluminum imports and additional levies targeting automobiles and other strategic goods.

With the December ruling still pending, industry leaders and international observers are closely watching for how the decision could reshape trade flows, supply chains, and diplomatic relations between Washington and Beijing.