Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a 93.5% anti-dumping duty on imported anode-grade graphite from China, resulting in an effective tax rate of up to 160%, citing that these materials are sold below fair market value [1][3]. Group 1: Impact on Imports and Market - The new tariff will affect approximately $340 million (around 2.44 billion RMB) worth of imports based on 2023 import volumes [3]. - In the previous year, the U.S. imported 180,000 tons of graphite products, with two-thirds sourced from China [3]. - The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlighted that graphite remains a critical mineral with potential supply risks [3]. Group 2: Implications for Battery Manufacturers - The imposition of a 160% tariff is expected to increase the average cost of automotive power batteries by $7 (approximately 50.2 RMB) per kilowatt-hour, potentially eroding battery manufacturers' profits for one to two quarters [3]. - The American Active Anode Material Producers Association had previously warned that increased tariffs on imported anode materials could significantly impact companies like Tesla and Panasonic, which rely on these materials for battery and electric vehicle production in the U.S. [3]. Group 3: Broader Context of U.S.-China Trade Relations - Since the beginning of the year, the U.S. has intensified export controls on critical minerals and battery technologies from China, aiming to reduce dependency on Chinese goods and technologies [3]. - In May, the U.S. Department of Commerce initiated an independent countervailing investigation into Chinese anode-grade graphite, citing "unfair subsidies" [3].
美国拟对中国石墨加征93.5%关税，叠加税率达160%