The Canada Border Services Agency is launching an investigation into whether or not certain copper pipe fittings originating in or exported from Vietnam are being sold at unfair prices in Canada. It will also investigate whether or not subsidies are being applied to certain copper pipe fittings originating in or exported from Vietnam.

The investigations are the result of a complaint filed by Cello Products Inc., Cambridge, Ontario. The complainant alleges that as a result of price undercutting from Vietnam, Cello faces lost sales and market share, resulting in negative financial results, reduced production and employment.

According to the Vietnam Competition Authority, the copper pipe fittings under the investigation are coded 7412.10.00.11, 7412.10.00.19, 7412.10.00.90 and 7412.20.00.11, as well as 7412.20.00.12, 7412.20.00.19 and 7412.20.00.90. The investigation period is from Jan. 1, 2016 to Aug. 31, 2017.

The CBSA and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal will both play a role in the investigations. The CITT will begin a preliminary inquiry to determine whether the imports are harming Canadian producers and will issue a decision by Dec. 27.

Concurrently, the CBSA will investigate whether the imports are being sold in Canada at unfair and/or subsidized prices, and will make a preliminary decision by Jan. 25.

A copy of the Statement of Reasons, which provides more details about these investigations, will be available on the CBSA’s website and will be updated.