Investigation of Dumping Practices to Commence Against South Korea and China in Regard to Galvanized Steel by Japan
Japan has initiated an investigation into the import of hot-dip galvanized steel coil, sheet, and strip from South Korea and China. The probe, led by the finance and industry ministries of Japan, was launched in mid-August 2025, in response to an application filed by Nippon Steel Corp., Kobe Steel Ltd., and two other companies in April of the same year [1][2][4].
The targeted materials are commonly used in building materials such as guardrails and fences, as well as electrical equipment parts [1][4]. They are known for their resistance to rust, making them a valuable commodity in various industries.
The investigation was prompted by suspicions that these products from South Korea and China were being imported at unfairly low prices [2]. If the investigation determines that antidumping duties should be imposed, it would aim to level the playing field for domestic steel manufacturers [1].
The investigation will be conducted in accordance with World Trade Organization agreements and related domestic laws [2]. The involved parties will be given the opportunity to present evidence before a decision is made [2]. The planned timeline aims for the probe to conclude within approximately one year of its initiation, so completion should be around August 2026 [1][2][3].
This investigation follows a growing trend of countries taking measures to protect their domestic industries from what they perceive as unfair trade practices. It remains to be seen whether Japan will impose antidumping duties on hot-dip galvanized steel from South Korea and China, but the investigation is a significant step towards addressing the issue.
[1] NHK World, "Japan to probe hot-dip galvanized steel imports from South Korea, China", August 17, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250817_17/
[2] Reuters, "Japan to investigate hot-dip galvanized steel imports from South Korea, China", August 17, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.reuters.com/business/japan-to-investigate-hot-dip-galvanized-steel-imports-south-korea-china-2025-08-17/
[3] The Japan Times, "Japan to probe hot-dip galvanized steel imports from South Korea, China", August 17, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/17/business/japan-probe-hot-dip-galvanized-steel-imports-south-korea-china/
[4] Nikkei Asia, "Japan to probe hot-dip galvanized steel imports from South Korea, China", August 17, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Commodities/Japan-to-probe-hot-dip-galvanized-steel-imports-from-South-Korea-China
The investigation into hot-dip galvanized steel imports from South Korea and China, led by Japan's finance and industry ministries, is significant in the arts, finance, business, and industry sectors. If antidumping duties are imposed, it could potentially impact the cost and availability of these materials in various industries, such as construction and electronics.
