Investigation: Molded Fibre Tableware from China

Summary#

On October 15, 2025, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) began investigations under the Special Import Measures Act (SIMA) into alleged dumping and subsidizing of thermoformed molded fibre tableware imported from the People’s Republic of China. The notice starts an inquiry; it does not itself impose duties. The CBSA says a full product definition and tariff numbers are on its website and a Statement of Reasons will be available within 15 days.

What it does#

• Opens a formal CBSA investigation into alleged injurious dumping and subsidization of thermoformed molded fibre tableware from the People’s Republic of China.
• Flags the specific product group (plates, platters and bowls of certain sizes and types); the complete product description and tariff classification numbers are posted on the CBSA’s Dumping and Subsidy Investigations web page.
• Announces that a Statement of Reasons explaining the decision will be posted within 15 days.
• Begins a process that can lead to further steps (more investigation, possible hearings, and separate decisions) — but this notice itself is only the start of that process.

Who's affected#

• Companies that import or sell thermoformed molded fibre tableware from the People’s Republic of China (importers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers).
• Canadian manufacturers of similar disposable tableware who supported the complaint or could be the subject of injury claims.
• Businesses that use this tableware in large volumes (cafes, restaurants, caterers, event companies) and their buyers.
• Customs brokers, trade lawyers and others who handle import compliance and trade remedies.
• Consumers indirectly, if supply or prices are affected — though the notice does not say any measures are in force.

Why it matters#

• This investigation could affect the price and availability of certain disposable tableware if it eventually leads to trade measures.
• Importers may face extra paperwork and legal review as the case proceeds.
• Domestic producers are seeking protection they say is needed because of injurious imports; the investigation will test those claims.
• At this stage, there is no determination of dumping or subsidy, and no duties have been announced.