Paper Shopping Bags — China — C-570-153

An AD/CVD measure concerning paper shopping bags addresses two separate trade remedies: antidumping (AD) duties, which may apply when goods are exported to the United States at less than fair value, and countervailing duties (CVD), which may address financial assistance from a foreign government. These duties are generally in addition to ordinary customs duties and may apply based on the product’s description, country of origin, and exporting or producing company.

The measure typically affects importers, manufacturers, exporters, and suppliers of covered paper shopping bags. A product’s everyday name is not enough to decide coverage: the scope language controls, while the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification helps identify and report the merchandise. Importers should verify whether the bags’ materials, construction, dimensions, handles, design, and intended use match the scope. AD/CVD can create additional entry, documentation, cash-deposit, and liability requirements, so a customs broker or trade-remedy specialist may be needed.

What to check

• Read the official scope language, including stated inclusions, exclusions, and product characteristics; do not rely only on the title or HTS number.
• Confirm the country of origin, exporting country, manufacturer, and exporter, because AD/CVD treatment can vary by these parties and facts.
• Review the applicable HTS classification, but treat it as an identification aid rather than the final answer on scope coverage.
• Ask the supplier for complete product specifications, production details, and origin records, and keep them with the entry documentation.
• Before importing, have a customs broker or trade-remedy professional confirm deposit, reporting, and potential liability requirements when coverage is uncertain.