China launches anti-dumping probe into EU chemical imports ahead of trade talks

China's commerce ministry has launched an anti-dumping investigation into EU imports of p-nitrotoluene, a chemical used in dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides, just days before trade talks between the two blocs. A ministry spokesperson stated that China's domestic industry has requested the probe, alleging the EU's low-priced imports are "damaging" domestic production and operations. The disputed chemical is widely used in various industries, including production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.

The ongoing trade tensions between China and the EU have grown increasingly strained, with both sides threatening countermeasures against each other's trade measures. The EU's trade commissioner, Maros Sefcovic, and Chinese commerce minister Wang Wentao are set to hold critical talks on Thursday in an attempt to avoid a full-blown trade war.

In a recent investigation, the EU began probing polyvinyl chloride imports from countries including China in September. China has reiterated its stance that the EU must address its own economic and trade issues directly, resolving mutual concerns through dialogue and consultation.