U.S. Slaps Over 160% Tariff on Chinese Battery Graphite

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a final determination to impose both anti-dumping and countervailing duties on battery-grade graphite imported from China—including natural, synthetic, and coated graphite, which are used as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries. Specific Chinese companies face an anti-dumping duty rate of 93.5%, while all other Chinese exporters are subject to a nationwide uniform anti-dumping duty rate of 102.72%. Combined with countervailing duties ranging from 66.82% to 66.86%, the total combined duty rates exceed 160%. The measures will take formal effect only after the U.S. International Trade Commission confirms injury to the domestic industry in March 2026, and will be subject to review every five years thereafter. Additionally, previously imposed tariffs under Section 301 (25%) and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) (20%) remain in effect. This move is expected to significantly increase the cost of importing Chinese graphite into the United States, impacting the electric vehicle and energy storage supply chains. U.S.-based companies such as NOVONIX have welcomed the decision, stating it will help restore fair market competition and bolster domestic manufacturing.