In response to Kodak’s allegations of unfair trade practices, the US Department of Commerce has issued preliminary findings that could lead to significant tariffs on imported printing plates. Kodak, the last domestic manufacturer of aluminum printing plates in the US, has accused Fujifilm of selling Chinese-made products at unfairly low prices, undercutting the American market.
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The Department’s preliminary decision recommends imposing combined countervailing (anti-subsidy) duties and anti-dumping duties on Fujifilm’s plates manufactured in China at a rate of 102.07%. For plates from all other manufacturers, the proposed duties are even higher, at 171.12%. Additionally, Fujifilm’s plates made in Japan could face a preliminary dumping duty of 87.81%.
This move comes after Kodak’s appeal in the autumn of 2023, citing the need to address the “dumping” of plates into the US market at prices below the cost of production for Chinese plates, or below the producer’s sales price in the country of origin for Japanese plates. The US trade authorities have noted a significant increase in the value of printing plates imported from Japan and China, with figures nearly doubling and increasing by 570%, respectively.
Fujifilm has stated its intention to defend its position to the International Trade Commission, arguing that the higher market prices of their aluminum printing plates in Japan do not justify the perception of unfair pricing in the US. The company emphasizes that its pricing to US customers is fair and competitive, and it remains committed to supplying innovative and high-quality products.
The final determinations on the matter are expected to be made during July and August, which will decide whether these preliminary duties will become permanent, potentially reshaping the landscape of the printing plate market in the US.
Source: Tonernews
Covered By: Imaging Solution / Kodak
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