European Thermal Paper Producers File Anti-Subsidy Complaint Against Chinese Imports

The European Thermal Paper Association (ETPA) has filed a complaint with the European Commission to address what it describes as unfair competition from heavily subsidized lightweight thermal paper imports from China. The industry, primarily based in Germany, Finland, France, and Spain, alleges a market surge of over 500% in Chinese imports from 2022 to early 2025, accompanied by significant price drops. ETPA claims the Chinese government provides unfair subsidies, such as financial aid, tax benefits, and raw material supply below market prices. This has pressured European producers to reduce their prices, jeopardizing the continent’s thermal paper sector. The association urges the Commission to impose countervailing duties on imports to restore fair competition and protect the industry’s future in Europe.

GOVERNMENT REGULATION/LAWSUITS