Paperboard Cups Dumping Investigation under SIMA

Summary#

On August 17, 2026, the Canada Border Services Agency opened investigations under the Special Import Measures Act into alleged injurious dumping and subsidizing of paperboard cups and containers from the People’s Republic of China. The CBSA says the full product definition and tariff numbers are on its website and that a Statement of Reasons will be posted within 15 days.

What it does#

• Opens a formal probe into imports of paperboard cups and containers (and related blanks/flats) allegedly dumped or subsidized and causing injury in Canada.
• Points readers to the CBSA dumping and subsidy investigations web page for the detailed product description and tariff classification numbers.
• Announces that a Statement of Reasons explaining the decision will be available within 15 days of the decision.

Who's affected#

• Canadian producers of paperboard cups and similar containers.
• Importers, distributors and wholesalers who bring these products into Canada from the People’s Republic of China.
• Businesses that buy and use these cups (cafés, restaurants, retailers) could be indirectly affected if the investigation leads to changes in price or supply.
• If it’s unclear whether a particular business or shipment is included, the CBSA product definition and tariff codes on its website are the place to check.

Why it matters#

• If the investigation finds dumping or subsidizing and evidence of injury, it can lead to provisional or final duties on the imported goods. That would raise costs for importers and possibly for businesses that buy those cups.
• Domestic manufacturers might get protection or relief if injury is demonstrated.
• The announcement is the start of a process — it does not yet impose any duties or other measures.