Original Source: Husqvarna Group

The European Union is expected to initiate an investigation into Chinese robotic lawn mowers as trade tensions with China continue to escalate, according to the South China Morning Post, citing sources familiar with the matter.

A potential competition probe could impact Chinese exports and reduce manufacturers’ presence in the European market.

The EU is anticipated to begin its investigation as early as this week. This comes at a time when China has been selling an increasing number of robotic lawn mowers to Europe, and at higher prices. More than 40 percent of China’s robotic lawn mower exports are destined for the EU. Furthermore, during the first three quarters of this year, exports surged by 37.7 percent, according to customs data.

Husqvarna comments on European Commission investigation

The European Commission has initiated an anti-dumping investigation on imports of robotic mowers from China, based on a properly substantiated complaint. It is now for the Commission to investigate whether it is appropriate to protect fair competition and level the playing field on the European market for robotic mowers by imposing anti-dumping duties. We do not want to preempt the investigation but await the Commission’s conclusions.