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Milestone for Fair Competition: EU Introduces Definitive Anti-Dumping Duties on Candle Imports from China

27 January 2026 – A decisive step for the European candle industry and for consumer protection: With the implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/157 entering into force today, the European Commission is sending a clear signal against unfair trading practices. The RAL Quality Association for Candles and the European certification mark system Quality Mark Candles expressly welcome the introduction of definitive anti-dumping duties on candle imports from the People’s Republic of China.

Protection of Quality and Fair Trade
Following extensive investigations, it has been confirmed that Chinese imports have destabilised the European market through artificially low pricing. In order to protect domestic production and the high standards associated with the RAL Quality Mark, the following measures apply with immediate effect:

  • Duration: The measures enter into force on 27 January 2026 and are set for a minimum period of five years (until 26 January 2031).
  • Duty rates: The anti-dumping duties range from 56.7% to 60.3%. This significant increase is intended in particular to effectively close existing circumvention risks.
  • Scope: The Regulation covers all types of candles. The duties are payable directly by the importer.
  • Anti-circumvention protection: Of particular importance to the market, imports rerouted via third countries are also subject to these measures in order to consistently prevent loopholes.

A Strong Signal for Quality Mark Candles
For the RAL Quality Association for Candles, this step goes beyond a purely economic measure. It safeguards the competitiveness of manufacturers who commit themselves to strict quality, safety and environmental standards.

“This decision restores fair competitive conditions. It enables our members to continue investing in safety, innovation and sustainability without being forced out of the market by anti-competitive dumping prices,” stated Constanze Gillé, Managing Director of the RAL Quality Association for Candles.

What This Means for Trade
Importers must adjust to the new cost structures with immediate effect. The measure helps ensure that the value of the candle as a cultural asset and a high-quality product in Europe is preserved. In this context, Quality Mark Candles continues to serve as the most important point of reference for consumers who place particular emphasis on low-emission, safe-burning candles.

About RAL Quality Association for Candles
The RAL Quality Association for Candles monitors compliance with the strict quality and testing requirements of the RAL Quality Mark for candles. The European Quality Mark Candles, as a certification mark, stands for verified quality and safety across the entire European market.