Tribunal Probes China Plywood Imports Over Injury Claims

The Canadian International Trade Tribunal has launched a preliminary inquiry into allegations that imports of decorative and non-structural plywood from China are causing harm to Canadian manufacturers. The investigation follows complaints filed by Columbia Forest Products and the Canadian Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association, who claim that unfair trade practices are affecting their businesses.

According to the tribunal, the inquiry will examine whether the imported plywood has been dumped into the Canadian market at unfairly low prices or has benefited from government subsidies. These practices, if proven, could create an uneven playing field for domestic producers and lead to financial losses or slowed industry growth.

The investigation is being carried out under the Special Import Measures Act after the Canada Border Services Agency initiated its own review into the matter. The tribunal will assess whether there is a reasonable indication that the imports have caused injury, delayed development, or pose a future threat to Canadian industry.

A key decision in the case is expected by June 9, 2026, when the tribunal will determine whether the claims have enough merit to proceed. If the tribunal finds sufficient evidence, the CBSA will continue its investigation and issue preliminary findings by July 9, 2026.

Should those findings confirm dumping or subsidizing, the process will move to a final phase, where the tribunal will conduct a more detailed injury inquiry. This could eventually lead to trade measures such as tariffs or duties on the imported products.

The tribunal, an independent quasi-judicial body reporting to Parliament through the Minister of Finance, handles cases related to trade disputes, subsidies, and import regulations. It has also invited interested parties, including businesses and governments, to participate in the inquiry process by submitting formal notices.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about fair competition in international trade and the protection of domestic industries in Canada’s manufacturing sector.