China’s commerce ministry has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into chemical imports originating from the European Union. The investigation centers on a commonly used production chemical and was launched on Saturday, just days before the EU’s trade chief is scheduled to visit Beijing. According to a spokesperson from China’s commerce ministry, the probe was requested by domestic industries within China concerned about potential dumping. This action occurs as the European Union prepares for trade talks with Chinese officials in Beijing. The timing of the investigation raises questions about its potential connection to the upcoming negotiations. It remains to be seen how this anti-dumping probe will impact trade relations between China and the European Union, but it introduces a new layer of complexity to discussions.