Bayer Unit Withdraws Petition Seeking Duties on Glyphosate Imports

Bayer subsidiary Ruveon has withdrawn petitions seeking antidumping and countervailing duties on glyphosate imported from China after opposition from major U.S. commodity groups.

The National Corn Growers Association welcomed last week's decision, saying additional duties could have increased herbicide costs for farmers already facing weak commodity prices and elevated production expenses.

Monsanto and Ruveon filed the petitions June 30 with the Commerce Department and U.S. International Trade Commission.  They alleged Chinese glyphosate was sold below fair value and benefited from government subsidies.  Proposed dumping margins ranged from 68.9% to 446.47%. Bayer, the only U.S. glyphosate producer, had said the action was needed to counter unfair trade and sustain domestic production.

Ag organizations argued that duties would reduce competition and raise prices for a widely used weed-control product.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-9791, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com