On 2 October, a WTO panel stated that the EU had violated certain rules in imposing duties on cold-rolled flat stainless steel products imported from Indonesia, emphasizing that the measures should be brought into compliance with agreements on subsidies and countervailing measures.
Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated, “Indonesia’s victory in this dispute is a major success for the market access of our stainless steel products in the EU and other countries. We call on the EU to respect the WTO panel’s decision and immediately remove the unlawful duties.”
Indonesia had complained to the WTO in 2023 that anti-dumping duties ranging from 10.2% to 20.2%, imposed since 2021, were causing serious harm to exports. In addition, the EU had started applying countervailing duties of up to 21.4% since 2022.
Minister Santoso emphasized that the government will closely monitor the process, noting that swift implementation of the ruling will further strengthen Indonesian stainless steel’s access to the EU market.
The case represents the latest chapter in trade tensions between Indonesia and the EU. Although the parties concluded free trade agreement negotiations last month, disputes continue over duties on steel and biodiesel products. Last week, the EU announced it would challenge another WTO ruling issued in Indonesia’s favor regarding biodiesel products.
Comments
No comment yet.