Türkiye imposes anti-dumping tariffs on packaging film from China, Egypt, and Russia to protect domestic producers from unfairly low-priced imports.
Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade has officially announced the imposition of definitive anti-dumping duties on imports of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film—commonly used as stretchable plastic film for packaging—originating from China, Egypt, and Russia. The decision follows a comprehensive investigation into allegations that these imports were being sold in the Turkish market at unfairly low prices, causing harm to domestic manufacturers.
The investigation, initiated in February 2024 in response to formal complaints lodged by local producers, aimed to determine whether imported BOPP film was being dumped—sold at prices below normal value—and if this was causing material injury to Türkiye’s domestic industry. The findings, published in the Official Gazette, confirmed that exporters from the three countries had engaged in such pricing practices, which undercut Turkish manufacturers and distorted competition.
The Turkish authorities determined that the influx of underpriced imports significantly pressured local producers, reducing their market share and profitability. The ministry emphasized that the decision to impose tariffs is rooted in the need to create a level playing field, protect domestic production capabilities, and ensure the sustainability of the local packaging film sector.
In accordance with the investigation's outcome, Türkiye has decided to impose anti-dumping duties that differ based on the origin and specific exporters. Imports of BOPP film from China and Egypt will face variable tariff rates, which range from 12.85% to as high as 62.94% of the product’s cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value. These rates will depend on the exporter and their specific pricing history and behavior during the investigation period.
Meanwhile, Russian exporters of BOPP film will be subject to a flat anti-dumping duty of 47.14% of the CIF value. This uniform rate reflects a consistent pattern of underpricing identified across all Russian companies involved in the export of this product to Türkiye.
The ministry highlighted that the imposition of these duties is a necessary step to deter future dumping practices and to reinforce a fair-trade environment. The decision is also expected to boost confidence among Turkish manufacturers, encouraging further investment in domestic production facilities and innovation in packaging materials.
By introducing these corrective measures, Türkiye aims to mitigate the adverse effects of foreign competition based on unfair pricing and to support the viability of its industrial base. The government reiterated its commitment to enforcing international trade rules and defending the interests of local industries within the framework of World Trade Organization (WTO) guidelines.
