Container chassis investigation extended

Summary#

On September 1, 2021, the Canada Border Services Agency announced it is extending the preliminary stage of an investigation into the alleged dumping and subsidizing of certain container chassis from China. The preliminary period was extended from 90 days to 135 days, so a decision will be made by October 21, 2021 about whether to move to preliminary findings or end the probe.

What it does#

• The Canada Border Services Agency says it needs more time to complete the early part of its probe into certain container chassis allegedly dumped or subsidized by exporters from China.
• Under the Special Import Measures Act, the normal preliminary time limit of 90 days was extended to 135 days because the agency says the case is unusually complex.
• The agency will decide on or before October 21, 2021 whether to issue preliminary determinations (which can lead to provisional duties) or to stop the investigation.

Who's affected#

• Businesses that import or sell container chassis from China (including shipping lines, freight companies, and equipment dealers).
• Canadian companies that make or lease container chassis and their suppliers.
• Port operators, logistics providers and others who rely on chassis for moving shipping containers.
• Consumers indirectly, if costs for moving goods change as a result of duties or supply changes.

Why it matters#

• The extension keeps uncertainty in place for importers and users of container chassis. They won't know for several more weeks whether provisional duties or other measures will be applied.
• If preliminary findings later show dumping or subsidizing, importers could face extra costs (duties, bonds or other measures) that can raise transport and goods-handling costs.
• The delay gives the agency more time to review complex evidence, but it also extends the period when businesses must plan for possible added costs or supply disruptions.