Initiation of an Anti-Dumping Duties Investigation of Hot-Rolled Steel Coil, Sheet and Strip Originating in the Republic of Korea, the People’s Republic of China, and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu

1．Background

On February 27, 2026, the Minister of Finance received an application from NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION, JFE Steel Corporation, Kobe Steel, Ltd. and Nakayama Steel Works, Ltd., to impose anti-dumping duties on hot-rolled steel coil, sheet and strip* originating in the Republic of Korea (Korea), the People’s Republic of China (China)** and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu (Taiwan). The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) examined the application in accordance with the WTO Agreements and related domestic laws and regulations. The results showed that the application had sufficient evidence to justify the initiation of an investigation. Therefore, the ministries have decided to initiate a joint investigation (Public Notice on June 1, 2026).

*Note: Hot-rolled steel coil, sheet and strip are used in a wide range of applications, including automobiles, electrical machinery, construction materials, containers, and steel pipes.

**Note: Excluding the regions of Hong Kong and Macao.

2. Outline of the Investigation

The investigation is to be concluded within one year, in principle. The ministries will provide opportunities for interested parties to present evidence, and will carry out a factual investigation of companies in Korea, China, Taiwan, and Japan.

Based on the results of the investigation, the Government of Japan will determine whether or not products have been imported into Japan at dumped prices and if such dumped imports have caused material injury to the domestic industry, in accordance with the provisions of the international rules under the WTO Agreements and related domestic laws and regulations, and make a decision on whether or not to impose anti-dumping duties on products subject to the investigation.

Reference

• Summary of the Written Application from the Domestic Industry(PDF:67KB)
• Questionnaire (in Japanese)

Divisions in Charge

• Office for Trade Remedy Investigations, Trade Control Department, Trade and Economic Security Bureau

• Metal Industries Division, Manufacturing Industries Bureau