The European Union (EU) said Thursday it has reopened its investigation into the dumping of Chinese polyester fabrics because of complaints its existing duties on the imports from China aren't working.

The EU began its new nine-month investigation following complaints from European producers. The previous investigation, completed last year amid a broader textile trade dispute between the EU and China, resulted in duties of up to 56.2 percent on imports of Chinese polyester filament fabrics.

The fabrics are used in clothing and furnishings. But evidence provided by European textile makers now shows dumping of the Chinese exports has increased and prices have fallen since those duties were levied, the EU said.

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