Tokyo, July 9 – The Japanese government officially launched provisional anti-dumping duties targeting nickel-containing cold-rolled stainless steel coils, sheets and strips originating from Chinese mainland and Chinese Taiwan region. The valid period runs from July 9 until November 8, 2026.

       The investigation was initiated in July 2025 following complaints filed by domestic stainless steel manufacturers including Nippon Steel. After a one-year probe, Japanese authorities confirmed dumped imports have caused material injury to local industry. Tax rates range from 27.7% to 42.1% for mainland Chinese suppliers, while Taiwanese exporters face duties between 3.6% and 20.1%. Affected products are widely used in household appliances, kitchen equipment and construction decoration. Steel traders warn the preliminary ruling will directly restrain stainless steel exports to Japan and push Asian suppliers to shift shipments to Southeast Asian markets.