IRONING board makers from China are facing renewed anti-dumping tariffs - reaching as high as 42.3 percent - from the European Union as the 28-nation bloc steps up trade protectionism.

The EU reimposed duties on Chinese exporters, most of whom are based in the manufacturing hub of Guangdong, such as Guangzhou Power Team Houseware Co and Greenwood Houseware (Zhuhai) Ltd, for another five years, the EU said yesterday.

The decision was taken on July 15 in Brussels following a 15-month probe and the duties come into effect today.

China's Ministry of Commerce has yet to comment on the renewal of duties, only saying in a brief statement that it will hurt Chinese exports to Europe.

The EU first imposed the duties on Chinese ironing boards in 2007.