North American graphite producers have called on the US government to impose tariffs as high as 920% on Chinese graphite imports, alleging "malicious trade practices" by Beijing. This request aims to counter China's dominance in the production and processing of graphite, a crucial component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and electronics.

Graphite, the largest material by volume in EV batteries, is sourced either naturally or synthetically. China, the global leader in both types, recently tightened its graphite exports to the US. The American Active Anode Material Producers, a coalition of US and Canadian companies, has urged the US Department of Commerce and the International Trade Commission (ITC) to investigate whether China is exporting graphite at unfair prices.

The group argues that current tariffs of 25% are insufficient to counter China's lower labor and environmental standards, which enable rapid production expansion. While some industry players support targeted tariffs, others suggest policies requiring domestic sourcing over blanket trade measures.