Paper Shopping Bags — China — A-570-152

An AD/CVD measure combines antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) rules. Antidumping duties address imports that the government determines are sold in the United States at less than fair value. Countervailing duties address benefits, or subsidies, provided by a foreign government to producers or exporters. For a measure concerning paper shopping bags, coverage generally depends on the product’s physical characteristics, construction, and intended use, not just its name or tariff classification.

The measure typically affects importers, foreign producers, exporters, and sometimes related parties involved with covered paper shopping bags from specified countries or sources. An importer may have to provide additional entry information and pay AD/CVD cash deposits in addition to ordinary customs duties. The importer of record is generally responsible for declaring merchandise accurately, even when a supplier or broker prepares the entry. Final liability can depend on later administrative review results, so professional customs-broker or trade-counsel advice may be needed.

What to check

• Read the official scope description carefully, including product features, materials, dimensions, handles, coatings, and exclusions; do not rely on the product name alone.
• Confirm the country of origin and the identities of the producer and exporter. AD/CVD treatment can differ by country and by company.
• Compare the product with the listed tariff classifications, but treat the HTSUS number as a starting point—not proof that the merchandise is covered or excluded.
• Ask your customs broker how to report the measure, deposit applicable duties, and provide required producer, exporter, or certification information before entry.
• Keep product specifications, supplier records, origin documents, invoices, and classification analysis so you can support a scope or exclusion determination if questioned.