U.S. Moves Forward in Trade Case on Polypropylene Corrugated Boxes from China and Vietnam

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The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) is moving ahead with the final step of an investigation into polypropylene corrugated boxes (“PC boxes”) from China and Vietnam. This notice came after a finding from the U.S. Department of Commerce that these boxes from China are being subsidized.

What Are Polypropylene Corrugated Boxes?

These are boxes, bins, totes, or other containers made from special sheets of plastic called polypropylene. The inside of these sheets have channels or pockets of air. This makes the boxes lightweight but strong. They can come in one piece, two pieces, or several pieces, with or without handles, lids, or reinforcing wire. They may also be printed with ink or digital designs. Even lids or tops shipped alone are included.

Why Is There an Investigation?

The investigation looks at imports from China and Vietnam. The goal is to decide if the influx of these boxes hurts U.S. companies or slows down new businesses. Four U.S. companies asked for this review: CoolSeal USA Inc., Inteplast Group Corporation, SeaCa Plastic Packaging, and Technology Container Corp.

Next Steps of the Investigation

  • The final part of the investigation started on August 20, 2025.
  • The U.S. Department of Commerce already made a first decision that boxes from China may be getting help from the Chinese government.
  • Decisions about “antidumping”—selling the boxes for less than they cost to make—are still pending.
  • The ITC will decide if the imports hurt or threaten to hurt U.S. industry.

Key Dates and Deadlines

  • October 22, 2025: A staff report will be made in the nonpublic record. A public version will follow.
  • October 28, 2025: Final prehearing briefs must be turned in.
  • October 29, 2025: People must request to appear at the hearing.
  • November 4, 2025: A prehearing conference may be held, and written testimony and slides for the hearing are due by noon.
  • November 5, 2025: The main hearing will start at 9:30 a.m.
  • November 12, 2025: Deadline for post-hearing briefs and for others to send in written statements.
  • November 25, 2025: All new information will be shared with the parties.
  • December 1, 2025: Final comments must be submitted.

How to Get Involved

People who want to take part in the hearing must file an “entry of appearance” at least 21 days before the hearing. Industrial users, consumers, and others can send written statements. All filings must be made online through the Commission’s electronic filing system.

Rules and Security

Business secrets collected during the investigation can only be seen by allowed people under a special order. Paper filings are not accepted at this time. Only electronic filings will be used.

Contact and More Information

For questions, contact Camille Bryan at (202) 205-2811. More information is available on the ITC’s website (https://www.usitc.gov) and on the electronic docket (https://edis.usitc.gov).

Legal Authority

This investigation is being conducted under Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930.

Issued by:

Lisa Barton,
Secretary to the Commission
Date: 2025-08-22