Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

U.S. slaps duties on Chinese bags

Preliminary anti-dumping duties of up to 123% have been imposed on $175 million worth of plastic shopping bags made in China, Malaysia, and Thailand.

In late January, the U.S. Department of Commerce approved the duties and is expected to issue final anti-dumping duties in June.

Chinese converters are the major suppliers, shipping nearly 29.2 billion units in 2002, valued at $147 million. The all-China duty is 80.52%, although individual companies identified by name had duties set from less than 1% up to 57%.

The Malaysian suppliers will incur duties that range from less than 1% up to 102%. Thai converters were assessed duties from 3% to 123%. Importers of these bags are required to deposit cash equal to the value of the preliminary duties. The decision is the latest in a series of actions aimed at imports, primarily from China.

In August, it’s expected that the U.S. International Trade Commission will vote on whether U.S. producers have been materially harmed by the imports. For more information, contact the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Intl. Trade Commission, at 202/482-3809.

Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers
7 proven steps to eliminate downtime and boost packaging line efficiency. Free expert playbook reveals maintenance, sequencing, and handling strategies.
Read More
Conveyor setup secrets from top CPG manufacturers