The TRA has opened a new anti-subsidy investigation into imports of creamy/white limestone from Portugal, following an application from a UK producer.
The Trade Remedies Authority has opened a new anti-subsidy investigation into imports of creamy/white limestone from Portugal.
Creamy/white limestone is a natural stone product used in high-end architectural projects, heritage restorations, and premium commercial builds.
The new investigation is in response to an application by a UK producer, which alleges that the manufacture of creamy/white limestone from Portugal is being subsidised by their home government and that these subsidised imports are causing injury to the UK's domestic industry for these goods.
The application identifies 14 different subsidy programmes, including grants, non-refundable financing and funded payments provided by the Portuguese government to support the stone industry. These subsidies are alleged to have enabled Portuguese producers to purchase more efficient machinery and enhance their competitive position in overseas markets.
If you think your business may be affected, you can contribute to this investigation by visiting the TRA's public file and registering to take part.
Background information
- The period of investigation is 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025. The injury period is 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2025.
- The TRA is the UK's independent body responsible for investigating whether trade remedies are needed to counter unfair import practices.
- Countervailing duties are one of three trade remedy tools used to address goods that are being unfairly subsidised by overseas governments and causing injury to UK industry.
