China has launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of p-nitrotoluene, a chemical used in plastics, from the European Union, its commerce ministry announced on October 3, 2026. The probe comes ahead of planned high-level trade talks between Beijing and Brussels.

The EU has recently taken steps to block access for Chinese firms in several sectors, citing unfair state subsidies. Chinese officials have rejected claims that their manufacturers’ competitiveness relies on state support and have threatened countermeasures against EU actions.

This move marks a broadening of trade tensions, which have recently centered on sectors like electric vehicles and solar panels.