CBSA extends plywood dumping probe

Summary#

The Canada Border Services Agency extended the preliminary phase of its investigation into alleged injurious dumping and subsidizing of certain decorative and other non‑structural plywood from China. The usual preliminary period of 90 days was extended to 135 days on September 2, 2020, so the agency will decide on or before October 23, 2020 whether to issue preliminary findings or to end the investigations.

What it does#

• Extends the CBSA’s preliminary investigation period from 90 days to 135 days for this case.
• Says the reason for the extension is the complexity and novelty of the issues the investigations raise.
• Sets the deadline for a preliminary decision (to issue findings of dumping/subsidy or to terminate the investigations) as on or before October 23, 2020.
• Gives contact names at the CBSA for more information: Jody Grantham and Jeffrey Laplante.

Who's affected#

• Exporters and producers in China of the plywood described in the investigation.
• Canadian importers, distributors and sellers of that plywood.
• Canadian plywood manufacturers and other domestic businesses that compete with or buy that product.
• It is not clear from the notice which specific companies or shipments (if any) will be directly targeted.

Why it matters#

• A preliminary finding of dumping or subsidizing could lead to provisional duties or other trade measures, which can raise import costs and change supply decisions.
• The extension delays a decision, so affected businesses have more time before any provisional measures might be applied.
• Buyers and sellers of the plywood should watch for the CBSA’s decision by October 23, 2020, because it could affect prices and availability.