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Commerce Department Finds Subsidies for Chinese Active Anode Material

Estimated reading time: 4–6 minutes

The U.S. Department of Commerce has made a preliminary decision. It found that producers and exporters in China are getting countervailable subsidies for active anode material. The finding comes after an investigation covering January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023.

What Is Active Anode Material?

Active anode material is used in batteries. It is graphite with at least 90 percent carbon. It may have synthetic or natural graphite, or a mix of both. It might also be mixed with silicon materials or additives like carbon black. It can be in powder, liquid, or block forms. It is covered even if imported as part of a mixture or a battery.

Companies Covered in the Investigation

The Department looked at several companies. These include Panasonic Global Procurement China Co., Ltd. and its partner, Panasonic Corporation of China. Together, they work with suppliers such as BTR New Material Group and its affiliates.

Shanghai Shaosheng Knitted Sweat and Huzhou Kaijin New Energy Technology Corp., Ltd. were also examined.

Initial Findings and Subsidy Rates

The Department set subsidy rates for these companies. The results are:

  • Panasonic Global Procurement China Co., Ltd. and Panasonic Corporation of China: 6.55 percent.
  • Shanghai Shaosheng Knitted Sweat: 721.03 percent (this rate is based on facts available with adverse inferences).
  • Huzhou Kaijin New Energy Technology Corp., Ltd.: 721.03 percent (this rate is also based on facts available with adverse inferences).
  • All other producers and exporters: 6.55 percent.

The highest rates were assigned when companies did not provide enough information to the Department.

Next Steps in the Investigation

U.S. Customs and Border Protection will now suspend liquidation of the imports listed above. This means imports of active anode material from China will need a cash deposit equal to the above rates.

The Department will check the information in the final review, called verification. The final decision will be made on the same date as the companion antidumping investigation. That is now set for no later than September 29, 2025, unless postponed.

How to Comment or Take Part

Companies and parties interested in this investigation can comment. They can send case briefs or comments on the determination. They can also request a hearing by giving their name, address, and which issues they want to discuss. These requests must be made within 30 days of the notice.

International Review

The U.S. International Trade Commission will be informed of this decision. If the final finding is also affirmative, the Commission will decide if these imports hurt U.S. industry.

Where to Find More Information

The full details and reasoning are provided in the Preliminary Decision Memorandum. Public documents are available online at https://access.trade.gov.

Product Scope and Customs

Active anode material is usually listed under these U.S. customs codes: 2504.10.5000 and 3801.10.5000. Other possible codes include 2504.10.1000 and 3801.90.0000. The written scope in the investigation is the final word.

Summary

The Department of Commerce believes Chinese producers of active anode material are receiving financial backing from the Chinese government. This investigation is ongoing. Interested parties should review the findings and take action if needed.


Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific consultation, please contact us. Read our full Legal Disclaimer, which also includes information on translation accuracy.