European Commission imposes a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports from Korea into the European Union

“The Commission’s decision to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of heavyweight thermal paper from Korea is absolutely necessary to safeguard a level playing field, jobs and ensure a sustainable future for Europe’s strategically important paper and packaging industry. This happens against the background of a challenging international trade environment,” said the European Thermal Paper Association (ETPA) in its press statement.

The decision follows a complaint filed by ETPA and its members from Germany, Finland and Spain. HWTP has many applications, including labels in the e-commerce sector, event tickets and more.

Bird & Bird’s Trade and Customs team acted for ETPA. The group was led by partner Hein Hobbelen and included partner Anne Federle, associates Baptist Vleeshouwers, Dick Ignacio, Kiliane Huyghebaert and Pauline Van Sande, and senior public affairs manager Francine Cunningham.

“This is an important decision to safeguard fair competition and EU jobs in an increasingly turbulent world trade environment,” said Bird & Bird trade partner Hein Hobbelen. “Our client is grateful for the Commission’s thorough investigation and robust decision shielding EU businesses and workers from the chilly winds of unfair trade.”

Download the full publication of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1524 here.

About ETPA: The European Thermal Paper Association represents the interests of European thermal paper manufacturers. ETPA members are part of a rich tradition of paper production in Europe and contribute substantially to the economic development of their respective regions. Association members include Kanzan Spezialpapiere GmbH, Papierfabrik August Koehler SE, Mitsubishi HiTec Paper Europe GmbH, Jujo Thermal Ltd. and Lecta Group / Torraspapel SA. Collectively, they employ more than 6,000 people in Europe.