Paper Cups Imported from China: What the October 16, 2026 Decision Could Mean for Canada

Information current as of October 10, 2026.

For cafés, restaurants, hotels and distributors, paper cup pricing is an operating cost worth watching. A Canadian investigation into certain paperboard cups and containers from China could affect sourcing conditions in the coming months.

An important first milestone is approaching: October 16, 2026. What does this date mean? Will additional duties apply immediately? And how should businesses prepare their next orders? Here are the key points.

Why is Canada investigating these imports?

On August 17, 2026, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) initiated investigations into the alleged dumping and subsidizing of certain paperboard cups and containers from China. The investigations followed a complaint from Great Pacific Enterprises Limited Partnership, operating as Genpak.

Two agencies have distinct roles: the CBSA investigates the alleged trade practices, while the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) considers the alleged injury to Canadian production. Opening an investigation does not, by itself, establish that unfair trade practices have occurred. Read the CBSA’s notice of initiation.

What is scheduled for October 16, 2026?

The CITT is scheduled to determine whether there is a reasonable indication that the alleged dumping and subsidizing have caused injury or retardation, or threaten to cause injury, to the Canadian industry.

A positive decision would allow the process to continue. A negative decision would end the preliminary injury inquiry.

This date does not mean that a new tariff will automatically apply to all Chinese paper cups. It concerns an initial assessment of injury, separate from the CBSA’s determinations on dumping and subsidizing. Read the CITT’s announcement.

Why does November 16 also matter?

The CBSA’s published schedule sets November 16, 2026 for preliminary determinations or termination of its investigations.

Provisional duties could apply following positive preliminary determinations. Their application would depend on the decisions issued and the goods concerned.

As of October 10, it would therefore be premature to announce a final rate or present a specific price increase as certain. Businesses should distinguish an estimate, a possible outcome and an officially applicable duty. Check the official CBSA investigation schedule.

Which products are covered?

The investigation covers certain cups and containers formed from coated paperboard, as well as blanks or flats for forming them, originating in or exported from China. The official product definition also includes exclusions.

One detail deserves attention from manufacturers and distributors: ready-to-form die-cut blanks may be covered. However, the CBSA explains that a printed roll that has not yet been cut is not a subject good under this definition, even if it is intended for die-cutting in Canada.

Businesses therefore need to consider both the product and the form in which it is imported. The location of final assembly alone does not describe a supply chain’s full exposure. Read the CBSA’s product definition and explanation.

How can you prepare your next orders?

Our recommendation for buyers is to use this period to clarify their suppliers’ terms. Before confirming an order, ask:

• Where are the cups manufactured?
• Is the quoted price firm, and how long is it valid?
• How would any new duties be handled under the quotation?
• Which lead times and quantities are confirmed?
• Is an alternative available that works with your lids and equipment?

Comparing the price per case alone does not provide the full picture. Freight, product compatibility, delivery terms and visibility over future orders also matter. Our guide to choosing a paper cup supplier offers further practical criteria.

An opportunity to evaluate local manufacturing

For a Québec business, this period may be an opportunity to compare its current supply arrangements with a Canadian-made option.

At Les Emballages ASWAL, we manufacture paper cups in Montréal and support businesses with standard and custom paper cup projects.

We start with your needs: beverages, sizes, quantities, logo, lids and delivery destination. These details help us prepare a tailored quotation and give you a concrete basis for comparing options.

Choosing a local supplier should be based on product specifications, service and the terms confirmed for your order.

Two dates to follow, without assuming the outcome

October 16, 2026 concerns the CITT’s preliminary injury decision. November 16, 2026 is the currently scheduled date for the CBSA’s preliminary determinations.

For now, preparing purchases means obtaining clear information and following official announcements. Any update to this article will need to reflect the decisions actually published.

Would you like to evaluate a Montréal-made option? Contact ASWAL to discuss your paper cup needs and request a quotation.