Saudi Arabia probes coated cardboard imports

Saudi authorities have launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of multi-layer (duplex) coated cardboard from India and China, a step that could affect prices and supply for packaging and printing businesses across the Kingdom.

The investigation, initiated on 19 August 2026 under the Law of Trade Remedies in International Trade (2022), covers grey-back coated paperboard with a white or other-colored face, weighing between 180 and 500 grams The product falls under several customs tariff codes, and case details are published and tracked through the official electronic trade remedies system (TRES).

The probe examines two time frames: the dumping investigation covers 1 January to 31 December 2025, while the injury investigation looks at a longer period from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2025. This allows authorities to assess both recent pricing practices and any longer-term impact on local producers.

At this stage, no definitive anti-dumping duties or per-ton fees have been imposed. Only the initiation of the investigation has been officially announced. If dumping and injury are ultimately confirmed, duties would be collected at import as additional customs charges, typically expressed as a percentage of the CIF import value. Exact rates have not yet been determined or published.

The process gives interested parties a role. Exporters, importers, and other affected parties can register as parties to the case through the online system and respond to questionnaires within set deadlines. Authorities may carry out on-site verification visits and hold public hearings before issuing preliminary findings, and, if warranted, may recommend provisional measures ahead of a final decision.

For local packaging manufacturers, printers, and importers, the outcome could reshape sourcing costs and competition. Businesses that rely on imported coated cardboard are advised to monitor the case closely, as any measures introduced later would apply at the point of import.

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