ASL LAW trade remedy lawyers reviewing Philippines DTI safeguard investigation notice and ceramic tile import data at Hanoi office

The Philippines Announces the Initiation of a Preliminary Safeguard Investigation on Imported Ceramic Tiles

The product under investigation is ceramic tiles, including floor tiles, ceramic paving tiles; wall tiles and fireplace tiles; ceramic mosaic cubes and similar products, whether or not on a backing; as well as finished ceramic materials. The goods concerned are primarily classified under HS codes 690722 and 690723; however, the reference to HS codes is indicative only for the purpose of determining the product scope.

Notably, this is not the first time the product has been subject to investigation. Previously, ceramic tiles were investigated twice under trade remedy proceedings in the Philippines, namely a safeguard investigation in 2018 and an anti-dumping investigation in 2021. Both cases were terminated without the imposition of any duty measures.

Regarding the basis for initiation, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) commenced the investigation following a petition filed by the Ceramic Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CMAI). According to the petitioner’s allegations, the significant increase in imports of ceramic tiles in recent years has been the primary cause of serious injury to the domestic industry, as evidenced by declining market share, reduced domestic sales, lower employment and productivity rates, incurred losses, and rising production costs.

In accordance with procedural regulations, interested parties may register to participate in the investigation, submit written arguments, provide evidence, or request a public hearing with the investigating authority at the following address: Bureau of Import Services (BIS), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Filinvest Building, 387 Senator Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City; or electronically via email at: [email protected].

In light of this development, Vietnamese exporters of ceramic tiles to the Philippines are advised to closely monitor the progress of the investigation, proactively review export data for the period under consideration, and prepare complete documentation when requested to provide information. The fact that this product has repeatedly been subject to investigation indicates that it is a sensitive product receiving particular attention from the importing country’s domestic industry.

Although previous investigations did not result in the imposition of measures, enterprises should continue to fully and promptly cooperate with the investigating authority to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests. The Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam under the Ministry of Industry and Trade recommends that enterprises closely coordinate with relevant industry associations and state management authorities to exchange information, formulate appropriate response strategies, and minimize potential adverse impacts.

Public documents related to the case may be accessed in accordance with the notice issued by the investigating authority.

To protect their legitimate interests, manufacturers and exporters should familiarize themselves with the procedure and actively contact Vietnam Antidumping Law Firm specializing in anti-dumping and trade remedy for timely assistance.

ASL Law is a leading full-service and independent Vietnamese law firm made up of experienced and talented lawyers. ASL Law is ranked as the top tier Law Firm in Vietnam by Legal500, Asia Law, WTR, and Asia Business Law Journal. Based in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, the firm’s main purpose is to provide the most practical, efficient and lawful advice to its domestic and international clients. If we can be of assistance, please email to [email protected].

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