South Africa opened a safeguard inquiry into certain non-wired float glass imports on Nov. 3, assessing whether higher shipments are causing serious injury to its domestic industry or pose that threat.
South Africa notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Nov. 11. The WTO says opening the investigation does not itself restrict imports; temporary limits require a finding that increased imports are causing or threatening serious injury to local producers.
ITAC may disregard confidential material if a party has not provided a public summary and has no just cause. Parties withholding information must explain why it is confidential and provide a detailed public summary; if they cannot prepare one, they must submit a sworn statement explaining why.
South Africa’s notification gives interested parties 20 days from the investigation’s start to identify themselves, provide comments and submit written information or hearing requests. They may send submissions to ITAC’s Directorate: Trade Remedies II or directly to the investigating officers.
