EU launches investigation into U.S. biodiesel

The EU has initiated anti-subsidy and anti-dumping investigations into imports of biodiesel from the United States. Examination by the European Commission of complaints lodged by the European industry found that an investigation was warranted — sufficient evidence was provided of subsidies to the U.S. biodiesel sector, as well as dumping of biodiesel in the European market. EU Spokesperson for Trade Peter Power said: “We have always said that the EU will not tolerate unfair trade practices, and will pursue vigorously any well founded complaint. Anti-subsidy and anti-dumping complaints concerning imports of biodiesel from the USA were lodged with the Commission on April 29, 2008. The Commission will make its provisional findings by March 13, 2009 at the latest, which it will then present to EU member states. (June 14, 2008)