New EU anti-dumping duties on Chinese PCR and LCV tyres now in place
The European Commission has published details of the definitive anti-dumping tariffs to be imposed on imports of Chinese passenger car and light truck tyres. The measures took effect from 7th July 2026 and will have implications for importers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers operating in the Irish market.
Following the publication of the European Commission’s Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1540, definitive Anti-dumping tariffs now apply to imports of certain passenger car and light commercial vehicle tyres originating in China.
What tyres are affected?
The Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) is advising that the measures apply to new pneumatic tyres for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (including SUVs and vans) imported from China under CN codes 4011 10 00 and 4011 20 10.
Accrding to the ITIA the European Commission confirmed that the scope covers premium, mid-range and budget tyres.
The Commission rejected requests to exclude a number of niche product categories.
Duty rates now in force
The applicable anti-dumping duty depends on the manufacturer:
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Hankook Group – 4.3 per cent
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Shandong Yongsheng Rubber – 45.3 per cent
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Other cooperating Chinese manufacturers – 24.4 per cent
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All other Chinese manufacturers – 45.3 per cent
These duties are payable in addition to any normal customs duties and will directly impact import costs for businesses sourcing tyres from China.
The ITIA is advising importers sourcing tyres from China to:
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Review existing supply arrangements and determine which manufacturers are being used.
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Confirm the anti-dumping duty rate applicable to each supplier.
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Assess the impact on pricing, stock planning and future purchasing decisions.
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Ensure that customs declarations and import documentation accurately identify the tyre manufacturer.
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Retain supporting records to demonstrate compliance in the event of a customs audit.
Why supplier verification is now critical
The duty payable is linked to the actual manufacturer of the tyres, not simply the exporter or trading company.
To protect their business importers should:
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Obtain the full legal name and address of the manufacturing company.
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Ensure the same manufacturer is identified on invoices, shipping documents and customs paperwork.
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Verify that the manufacturer corresponds to the company-specific rate claimed at importation.
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Obtain and retain all documentation supporting the claimed duty rate.
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Carry out appropriate supplier due diligence and maintain an audit trail for each shipment.
Importers should be aware that where the required supporting documentation is not available, customs authorities may apply the higher residual duty rate of 45.3%.
Key takeaway
For Irish importers, wholesalers and retailers, understanding exactly who manufactures the tyre has become just as important as knowing who supplies it.
Importers are encouraged to engage with their suppliers and customs agents now to ensure the correct duty treatment is being applied and to minimise the risk of unexpected costs or compliance issues going forward.
Based on the text of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1540, the definitive anti-dumping duties are not applied retrospectively.