Australian Paper workers can now look to the future with even greater confidence after a government decision to impose anti-dumping duties on foreign copy paper, according to The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
As reported last week, the Federal Government supported calls by the Anti-Dumping Commissioner to impose duties on paper supplied by Thai, Brazilian, Chinese and most Indonesian exporters that had been selling “dumped” copy paper.
The term “dumped” relates to companies that export large quantities of copy paper into the Australian market at below-cost prices, making it almost impossible for Australian-made products to compete.
Mr Chester said the decision would support the 1000 jobs at Maryvale, and gives the company more confidence to pursue its diversification and expansion plans.
“The decision to impose duties is recognition that Australian Paper was competing on an uneven playing field. The decision will bring fairness back into the competition for local paper products,” Mr Chester said.
“Australian Paper is sustainably-sourced, and the company is continuously looking at ways to improving its business. I look forward to continue supporting them in the future.”
Assistant Minister for Industry Innovation and Science Craig Laundy, who made the decision to endorse the ADC recommendation, said the measures imposed would provide an effective safeguard to Australian Paper.
“The Turnbull Government will continue to protect Australian industries and workers, under Australia’s anti-dumping and countervailing (anti-subsidy) system,” Mr Laundy said.
“This decision is about ensuring a level playing field between Australia and our trading partners.”
The outcome has been welcomed by Australian Paper, local community leaders and Committee for Gippsland.
Mr Chester said there was a rigorous and extensive investigation, and he acknowledged the hard -work of Australian Paper, Australian Forest Products Association, and CFMEU Forestry Division.
Member for Gippsland Darren Chester with Australian Paper Chief Operation Officer Peter Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Paper and Director of Nippon Paper Industries, Mr Kunihiko Kashima, and Group General Manager Julian Mathers.
