Global Geopolitical Series: U.S. Commerce Department announces preliminary AD on imports of uncoated ground wood paper from Canada

Earlier this week, the U.S. Commerce Department announced preliminary results of the Anti-dumping Duty (AD) investigations on imports of uncoated groundwood paper from Canada. The investigations were initiated based on a petition filed by North Pacific Paper Company (WA).

The department has found that exporters from Canada have sold uncoated groundwood paper in the United States between 0.00 and 22.16 percent less than fair value, which is lower than the estimated dumping margins alleged by the petitioner of 23.45 to 54.97 percent. The department highlighted the reduction as a proof of transparent and a just process. The Commerce Department has asked the United States’ Customs and Border Protection Agency (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers based on these rates.

According to the department’s calculations, imports of uncoated groundwood paper from Canada were valued at an estimated $1.27 billion in 2016.

Since coming to power the Trump administration has initiated 102 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations, a whopping 96 percent increase from the previous period. The statement from the department quoted the Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross as saying, “President Trump made it clear from the beginning that we will vigorously administer our trade laws to provide U.S. industry with relief from unfair trade practices……..Today’s decision follows an open and transparent investigation in accordance with the applicable laws, regulations, and administrative practices that ensured a full and fair review of the facts.”