BELGIUM – The European Commission has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of Brazilian softwood plywood following a complaint from the Softwood Plywood Consortium (SPC), which represents major European producers.

The probe aims to determine whether Brazilian manufacturers are selling plywood in the EU at prices below market value, potentially harming the European industry.

Brazil, now the world’s leading exporter of softwood plywood, has overtaken European producers as the primary supplier to the EU.

“Brazil’s market is contracting, and with restrictions in other regions like the U.S., they are redirecting excess production to the EU at unfair prices,” an SPC spokesperson stated. “This investigation is crucial to safeguarding the EU’s entire softwood plywood value chain.”

During the investigation, all Brazilian softwood plywood imports will be registered at EU borders, enabling customs authorities to impose retroactive duties if unfair pricing practices are confirmed.

Covering the period from January 1 to December 31, 2024, the investigation could result in new tariffs and trade restrictions should evidence of dumping be found.