Morocco enforces steep anti-dumping duties on Egyptian PVC imports

Saturday 07 June 2025 - 09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco enforces steep anti-dumping duties on Egyptian PVC imports

Morocco imposes temporary tariffs of up to 92% on Egyptian PVC to protect national industry

Morocco has imposed provisional anti-dumping duties on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) imports from Egypt. The new tariffs range from 74.87% to 92.19%, targeting imports under tariff code 3904.10.90.00.

The decision came into effect on June 6 and will remain in force for four months. It follows a joint order issued by the Minister of Industry and Commerce and the Minister of Economy and Finance. The Customs and Indirect Tax Administration confirmed the implementation.

National producer SNEP triggers investigation

The investigation was launched on November 27, 2024, after a formal request by SNEP, Morocco’s leading PVC manufacturer. Authorities examined suspension polymerized PVC resin, a key input in construction, infrastructure, and packaging.

Preliminary findings showed evidence of dumping practices that inflicted significant harm on Morocco’s national production sector.

Differentiated duties based on cooperation

Two Egyptian companies were named in the investigation. Egyptian Petrochemicals Company (EPC) cooperated fully and initially received a provisional margin of 18.29%. TCI Sanmar Chemicals S.A.E. did not provide required data and was assigned a 27.56% rate based on available facts. These margins were later adjusted upward, resulting in the current provisional rates.

EPC now faces a 74.87% duty. Other Egyptian producers and exporters, including TCI Sanmar, are subject to a 92.19% tariff.

Imports surged, harming domestic producers

Authorities identified a sharp rise in the volume and market share of Egyptian PVC imports. These imports consistently undercut domestic prices, limiting local producers’ ability to adjust pricing, invest in modernization, or maintain profit margins.

The impact on Moroccan producers was direct and substantial. Production and sales volumes fell. Capacity utilization dropped. Profitability in the sector declined.

Causality established after in-depth review

Officials confirmed a causal relationship between the surge in underpriced Egyptian imports and the deterioration of the national industry. They ruled out other factors, such as internal management issues or market contraction.

A non-confidential version of the preliminary report was made available for consultation. Interested parties had until May 22 to submit written feedback or additional documentation.

The case sets a precedent in Morocco’s trade policy. It highlights the country’s capacity to respond to commercial threats while maintaining compliance with international rules and defending its industrial foundation.