The Philippines notified the WTO’s Committee on Safeguards that it initiated on Feb. 13 a preliminary safeguard investigation on alleged surge in imported corrugating medium from various countries causing injury to its domestic industry.
The investigation was initiated on the basis of import data obtained from official sources and information submitted by members of the Pulp and Paper Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (PULPAPEL) that increased imports of corrugating medium are a substantial cause of serious injury to the domestic industry. The investigation has been initiated to determine whether safeguard measures are warranted.
A safeguard investigation seeks to determine whether increased imports of a product are causing, or is threatening to cause, serious injury to a domestic industry.
Corrugating medium is the paperboard component used to form the corrugated or fluted member in corrugated board. It is usually made from semichemical hardwood pulps (short fibers) or recycled fiber (mostly from used containers).
In a document submitted together with the notification, the Philippines indicated that interested parties are invited to submit their comments and position on the matter, including their views on whether the imposition of the safeguard measure will be in the public interest. Submissions may be made to the Bureau of Import Services (BIS), Department of Trade and Industry, 7th Floor, Filinvest Building, #387 Senator Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City.
During a safeguard investigation, importers, exporters, and other interested parties may present evidence and views and respond to the presentations of other parties.
A WTO member may take a safeguard action (i.e. restrict imports of a product temporarily) only if the increased imports of the product are found to be causing, or threatening to cause, serious injury.
