EU Probes Chinese Aspartame Imports Over Unfair Prices and Market Injury
EU Launches Investigation Into Chinese Aspartame Imports After Price Drop
The European Commission has launched an interim review of anti-dumping measures on aspartame imports from China. The investigation follows a formal request from HSWT France S.A.S., representing the European Union’s aspartame industry, on April 14, 2026.
The review focuses specifically on whether current duties are high enough to protect European producers from financial harm. The Commission will evaluate whether Chinese imports are undercutting local prices and damaging the European market.
Overcapacity in China Harms Local Industry
The existing anti-dumping duties initially took effect under a 2022 regulation. However, the applicant provided evidence showing that market conditions have changed permanently since the original investigation.
According to the request, Chinese manufacturers have built up massive overcapacities of aspartame, causing global prices to plummet. European producers claim that despite current duties, Chinese imports have surged in volume and market share. This continuing price pressure has negatively impacted European market share, lowered employment, and damaged the overall financial health of local companies.
Furthermore, the structure of the EU industry has changed. The applicant previously operated as part of the multinational Ajinomoto Group, but has functioned as a standalone company since January 2019. This separation altered its production processes and costs, making it more vulnerable to unfair competition.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The European Commission agreed that sufficient evidence exists to justify a partial review. Investigators will focus on current production capacities in China and the pricing of its exports.
The review investigation period covers January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. To analyze broader trends, the Commission will examine data stretching back to January 1, 2022. If the Commission finds that current measures fail to prevent injury to the EU market, it may adjust the duties.
Interested parties have 37 days from the publication date of the official notice to submit comments regarding the investigation. Any requests for a formal hearing must be submitted within 15 days.