U.S. Department of Commerce Increases Duties on Chinese Battery-Grade Graphite to 160%+ in Final Determinations

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Commerce has determined that tariffs of at least 160% will be applied to anode active materials imported from China, pending a final determination by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) expected in March 2026 [1] Group 1: Tariff Details - An antidumping duty of 93.5% will be imposed on AAM imports from specified companies, while a duty of 102.72% will be applied to all other exporters from China [9] - A countervailing duty ranging from 66.82% to 66.86% will also be imposed on all AAM imports from Chinese producers [9] - The previously imposed tariffs of 25% and 20% under different acts remain in effect, with the legal validity of the IEEPA tariffs currently under review by the U.S. Supreme Court [3] Group 2: Impact on NOVONIX - The CEO of NOVONIX stated that these determinations are a significant step towards restoring fair competition in the U.S. anode materials market, enhancing the company's competitive position as it scales synthetic graphite production in North America [2] - The duties will apply broadly to anode-graphite materials, including both synthetic and natural graphite products used in lithium-ion battery applications [2] - NOVONIX is strategically positioned to support customers seeking secure, domestically produced anode materials, reinforcing supply chain resilience and U.S. energy security [5] Group 3: Company Strategy and Goals - NOVONIX aims to reduce supply chain risk and support U.S. energy independence by establishing a resilient battery materials supply chain [7] - The company is focused on expanding high-performance synthetic graphite production in the U.S., which is expected to encourage long-term capital investment in advanced manufacturing [4][5] - The company is building a North American platform for critical battery materials, anchored by its operations in Chattanooga, Tennessee [7]