The European Commission has started monitoring imports of specific ethylene and ammonia-based chemicals – used mainly in fertiliser production and industrial applications – following a sharp increase in their EU market share. This rise is linked to global overcapacity, especially in China, and growing trade restrictions elsewhere, raising concerns about potential harm to EU producers.

The monitoring, which covers all countries and will run for 3 years, focuses on products such as ethylene copolymers, high-nitrogen urea, and ammonium sulphate. It relies on real-time data from the EU Customs Surveillance System and does not restrict trade. Instead, it provides structured, transparent import data to support timely action by both the Commission and stakeholders.

The data, updated daily and published on the Commission’s website, will help EU industry assess trends and decide whether to request trade defence measures. It also enables the Commission to better evaluate any complaints or safeguard needs, reinforcing its ability to respond to market distortions effectively.