Thailand Starts Anti-Dumping Probe into PET Resin Imports from China

The products under investigation fall under three Thai customs codes:3907.61.00.000, 3907.69.10.000, and 3907.69.90.000. Stakeholders with a direct interest in the case have been instructed to submit written statements, comments, and supporting evidence to the relevant authorities within 30 days from the date of the official announcement.

Data compiled from customs records and industry analytics indicates that the investigation is unlikely to significantly disrupt China's overall PET bottle-grade resin export business. Export volumes from China to Thailand have remained relatively small in recent years, representing a minor share of China's total overseas shipments.

From 2021 to 2025, Thailand accounted for less than 1.5% of China's total PET bottle-grade resin exports (classified under tariff code 39076110; previously listed as 39076011 before 2017). In some years, that share dropped to roughly 0.75%. In 2025 alone, China exported approximately 74,000 metric tons of PET bottle-grade resin to Thailand, equal to less than 1.2% of its total export volume for the product.

Thailand's domestic PET production landscape is led by three major suppliers: Shinkong, Thai PET, and Indorama. Combined annual capacity stands at roughly 900,000 metric tons, including some recycled PET (RPET) output. Individual production lines typically range between 100,000 and 200,000 metric tons per year. Roughly half of Thailand's PET production is destined for export, with Japan and the United States as the primary destinations, absorbing more than 80% of the country’s total export volume. Local consumption relies mostly on domestic supply, with imports making up less than 10% of domestic demand.

China and Vietnam have been the top two sources of Thailand's PET resin imports over the 2021–2025 period, together accounting for nearly 90% of total import volumes. Absolute import quantities from both countries remain modest, typically in the range of several thousand metric tons annually.

Note: Statistics are based on Thai Customs data; minor discrepancies may exist between national import and export figures due to differences in reporting and arrival timelines.

Provincial-level breakdowns for 2025 show that Hainan was the largest source of China's PET exports to Thailand at 58%, followed by Guangdong at 14% and Fujian at 13%. Together, these three provinces accounted for 63,000 metric tons, or 85% of China's total exports to Thailand. As a result, certain Chinese producers with concentrated sales to Thailand may face greater exposure to the investigation.

Taking the full trade picture into account, the anti-dumping probe is expected to have only a limited impact on China's broader PET export sector. However, individual companies directly involved in the case may consider active engagement and response in the proceeding to protect their commercial interests.

Source Reference: Compiled and adapted from industry report via CCF Chemical Fiber Information Network, available at https://www.ccf.com.cn/newscenter/detail-120000-2026031800093.shtml