Australian Paper also welcomed the decision of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Panel to uphold the Australian Anti-Dumping Commission (ADC) framework in relation to investigations into products being dumped into the Australian market. Source: Timberbiz
The Australian Forests Products Association earlier in the week commended the WTO in its support.
“This decision confirms that the ADC is operating an effective and WTO compliant anti-dumping system that protects Australian industry from injury caused by dumped and subsidised imports,” said Mr Peter Williams, COO Australian Paper.
As an additional step the ADC is now looking to review the current anti-dumping measures in place for imported copy paper to ensure they remain reflective of prevailing market conditions and regulations. Australian Paper understands that current anti-dumping measures will remain in place until such a time that the relevant review is completed.
“Australian Paper welcomes the WTO’s recommendations as a further opportunity to demonstrate the integrity and robustness of the ADC’s investigative framework. We will also continue to carefully review the market price levels of imported copy paper to ensure that valuable Australian manufacturing jobs are supported into the future,” Mr Williams said.
Mr Williams added that the ADC must continue to monitor imports coming into Australia to ensure that the local market remains fair and that dumping duties are reviewed to ensure imported copy papers do not enter the market at levels that injure local manufacturers.
“As one of the Latrobe Valley’s largest employers, Australian Paper is committed to our mission of sustainable growth for the next generation. Market fairness supports a positive future for our manufacturing operations, our valued Australian jobs and our local regional communities, and the ADC has an important role to play in ensuring all market participants act in a sustainable manner.
Given current market conditions, the ADC should remain ready to investigate and continue to take all appropriate actions to maintain fair competition in the Australian market,” Mr Williams said.
