The U.S. Commerce Department confirmed that without the current measures, Chinese
thermal paper could re-enter the U.S. market at a
dumping margin of 115.29% . This is not a new rate — it upholds the existing determination from previous reviews. The anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders, first imposed in 2007, have now survived three sunset reviews, each time with the same conclusion: removing the duties would cause material harm to domestic producers.
| Year | Event |
| 2007 | Original anti-dumping & countervailing investigation initiated |
| 2007–2025 | Duties maintained through multiple administrative reviews |
| 2014 | First sunset review — duties affirmed |
| 2020 | Second sunset review — duties affirmed |
| 2025 | Third sunset review — duties affirmed again |
This nearly two-decade record reflects a long-term, institutionalized trade barrier that is unlikely to loosen in the near term. The policy continuity demonstrates that U.S. trade relief measures on this product have taken on a structural, permanent character.
For businesses sourcing thermal paper for the U.S. market, the continued duties create significant challenges:
- Direct imports from China face an enormous tariff burden, making price competitiveness extremely difficult. The 115.29% dumping margin effectively prices Chinese-origin thermal paper out of the U.S. market.
- Third-country transit trade is gaining attention as an alternative pathway. A compliant transit process typically involves: first-leg shipping from China to a third country, in-bond operations including relabeling and repackaging in compliance with local regulations, and second-leg export to the U.S. under the third country's origin certification. However, this approach must strictly comply with rules of origin, customs regulations, and international trade compliance standards to avoid legal risk and potential penalties.
- Diversified sourcing from non-duty regions has become a strategic priority for companies that need to serve the U.S. market competitively.
The U.S. is not alone in tightening trade controls on paper products. The EU's 2026 regulation requiring registration for thermal paper imports from China adds another compliance layer for European-bound shipments. Global buyers must now navigate a complex web of tariff schedules, origin documentation, and product registration requirements that vary significantly by destination market.
HeShuo works with a global network of manufacturing partners and logistics channels. We help international buyers navigate complex tariff environments with:
- Compliant sourcing strategies tailored to your destination markets
- Transparent documentation and origin certification that meets regulatory requirements
- Flexible shipping routes designed to optimize landed cost while maintaining full compliance
Whether you're shipping to the U.S., Europe, or Southeast Asia, we'll help you find the most cost-effective and compliant path.
Reach out to our team for a tailored supply chain solution that accounts for the latest trade policy developments.
