Canada probes Vietnamese fittings prices

CANADA: Customs authorities have launched an investigation into possible unfair pricing on copper pipe fittings from Vietnam.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) says it will also investigate whether or not subsidies are being applied to the fittings, which are used in air conditioning, refrigeration and plumbing applications.

The investigations are the result of a complaint filed by Cello Products Inc of Cambridge, Ontario, a leading manufacturer of cast brass fittings.

Cello alleges that, as a result of price undercutting from Vietnam, it faces lost sales and market share, resulting in negative financial results, reduced production and employment.

The CBSA and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) will both play a role in investigations, with the CITT issuing a decision by December 27.

The CBSA will also investigate whether the imports are being sold in Canada at unfair and/or subsidised prices, and will make a preliminary decision by January 25, 2018.