起点锂电·2025-05-22 10:16Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Commerce has preliminarily ruled that Chinese key battery components, specifically active anode materials, are receiving substantial government subsidies, paving the way for potential anti-subsidy tariffs on these products [1][2]. Group 1: Preliminary Ruling and Tariff Implications - The preliminary ruling on May 20 indicates that companies like Huzhou Kaijin New Energy and Shanghai Shaosheng Knitted Sweat, which did not participate in the investigation, face a tariff rate of 712.03%, while Panasonic and other Chinese producers face a rate of 6.55% [1]. - Huzhou Kaijin New Energy, established in August 2017, has an effective production capacity of 250,000 tons of anode materials, with plans to increase capacity to 590,000 tons by the end of 2025 [1]. - The final ruling from the U.S. Department of Commerce is expected on September 19, 2025, pending approval from the International Trade Commission (ITC), which will make its final decision on November 13, 2025 [1]. Group 2: Industry Context and Competitive Landscape - U.S. graphite producers initiated the investigation, claiming that Chinese government subsidies artificially lower prices, making it difficult for them to compete [2]. - The U.S. relies heavily on China for graphite, importing 59% of its natural graphite and 68% of its synthetic graphite from China, with approximately $350 million worth of anode materials imported in 2023 [3]. - The increasing trade barriers may lead to higher costs for U.S. customers and exacerbate volatility in the global new energy supply chain [3]. Group 3: Broader Trade Policies and Protectionism - The U.S. has escalated tariffs on electric vehicle batteries and non-vehicle lithium batteries, with rates reaching 173.4% and 155.9% respectively, although these rates have been reduced recently [4]. - The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill aimed at decoupling from Chinese battery suppliers, further indicating a strategy to weaken China's dominance in the battery supply chain [4]. - The ongoing trade tensions reflect a broader trend of protectionism in the U.S. and Europe, aimed at bolstering domestic industries against Chinese competition [5]. Group 4: Strategic Recommendations for Chinese Companies - Chinese lithium battery companies are advised to remain vigilant against geopolitical risks and trade protectionism, focusing on building resilient and localized supply chains [5]. - There is a need to create technological advantages to maintain a competitive edge in the global market, as highlighted by the statement from CATL's founder regarding the indispensable role of Chinese technology for global automakers [5].