Anti-dumping

On 11 October 2024, the European Commission initiated an antidumping investigation on imports of certain hardwood plywood from China. The products subject to investigation are classified under HS code subheadings 4412.31, 4412.33, and 4412.34. This investigation follows the application lodged on 27 August 2024 by the Greenwood Consortium on behalf of the Union industry.

EU launches anti-dumping investigation into Chinese plywood imports amid concerns

Posted on October 18, 2024   |   

The European Union is starting an anti-dumping investigation into Chinese plywood imports because of a rise in cheap hardwood plywood that is believed to come from Russia.

The Greenwood Consortium, which represents forest owners, loggers, and suppliers, filed a complaint against China in late August, claiming that low-priced imports are undercutting European companies and may come from conflict timber areas.

EU countries like Poland, Finland, the Baltic States, and France are significant plywood producers facing increased competition from Chinese imports.

Reports suggest that Russia is sending hardwood to China, which is then used for plywood production, despite a ban on Russian timber in the EU.

The EU has already imposed tariffs on birch plywood from Kazakhstan and Turkey due to the presence of Russian materials.

This investigation is likely to take more than 12 months, and all Chinese plywood imports will be tracked at EU borders for possible retroactive tariffs.