The Canadian International Trade Tribunal has found there's a reasonable indication that steel strapping from China, South Korea, Türkiye, and Vietnam.
In a significant development for the Canadian steel industry, the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) announced on July 10, 2025, that it has found a reasonable indication of injury to the domestic industry stemming from the dumping of steel strapping originating from China, South Korea, Türkiye, and Vietnam. The Tribunal also identified a reasonable indication of injury caused by the subsidizing of steel strapping specifically from China.
This determination by the CITT marks a crucial step in safeguarding the interests of Canadian steel producers. The inquiry was initiated under the Special Import Measures Act (SIMA) following the commencement of dumping and subsidizing investigations by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The CITT's findings provide a strong impetus for the CBSA to press ahead with its ongoing investigations into these trade practices.
With the CITT's determination, the Canada Border Services Agency is now expected to intensify its efforts. The CBSA is slated to issue its preliminary determinations by August 8, 2025. These preliminary determinations will indicate whether the CBSA believes dumping and/or subsidizing has occurred and, if so, will outline the preliminary duties that may be applied to the imported goods. Should the CBSA's preliminary findings align with the CITT's assessment, it would provide immediate relief to the domestic industry in the form of provisional duties.
The implications of this decision are far-reaching for the Canadian manufacturing sector, particularly for companies involved in the production of steel strapping. Dumped goods, sold at prices below their fair market value, and subsidized goods, benefiting from government financial assistance, can significantly undermine domestic industries by creating an unfair competitive landscape.
The Canadian International Trade Tribunal plays a vital role in Canada's trade remedy system. As an independent quasi-judicial body, it operates at arm's length from the government, reporting directly to Parliament through the Minister of Finance. Its mandate includes hearing cases related to dumped and subsidized imports, addressing safeguard complaints, adjudicating disputes concerning federal government procurement, and reviewing appeals of customs and excise tax rulings. Beyond its adjudicative functions, the Tribunal also serves as a key advisory body, offering expert advice to the federal government on various economic, trade, and tariff matters when requested.
This latest decision underscores the CITT's commitment to ensuring fair trade practices and protecting Canadian industries from harmful import competition.
