CHESTER WELCOMES PAPER IMPORT INQUIRY
October 15, 2013
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has welcomed an Anti-Dumping Commission inquiry into Chinese paper imports.
Mr Chester said the inquiry would focus on the importation of A4 and A3 copy paper into the Australian market from China, at prices less than their normal value.
He said the investigation was initiated after an application was lodged by local paper manufacturer, Australian Paper.
The application alleges that the goods have been imported into Australia at prices less than their normal value and that the dumping has caused material injury to the Australian industry.
“There has been a lot of recent publicity surrounding the use of cheap paper imports over Australian made paper,” Mr Chester said.
“Not only are there quality concerns in relation to cheap imports, they also threaten local paper manufacturing jobs.
“The Maryvale Mill is the largest private employer in Gippsland with almost 1000 employees and its viability is critical to the future of our region.
“This inquiry follows on from a dedicated campaign in the Latrobe Valley over the past 18 months to support local paper manufacturers.”
Earlier this year Mr Chester lodged a petition supporting the Maryvale Mill signed by 5000 residents to Federal Parliament.
Anyone seeking further information on the inquiry can find out more at www.adcommission.gov.au