South Korea to extend anti-dumping tariffs on choline chloride

South Korea said Thursday (November 26) it will extend a three-year imposition of its anti-dumping duties on livestock feed additives imported from the United States, China, India and Canada.

The Korean Trade Commission, the nation's anti-dumping authority, said the rate will range from 10.28 to 27.55 percent. The levying of punitive duties on imported choline chloride came to an end last month.

Choline chloride is a key nutrient used in livestock feed for chickens and pigs. It is also used in drugs for animals.

"Anti-dumping duties imposed since October 2004 have resulted in a dip in imports, but overcapacity and undercutting of prices make it necessary to retain the present tariff," the commission said.

It said that by maintaining the high duties, Seoul will be able to protect local manufacturers and stabilize local feed prices.

The local market for the additive stood at 11,629 tonnes worth 12 billion won (US$10.4 million) in 2008.