What is an anti-dumping duty?
Updated: 2026-10-14
Short answer
An anti-dumping duty is an additional import duty that an importing country may impose when it finds that imported goods are being dumped and are causing injury to its domestic industry. Dumping generally involves export sales below the product’s normal value under the applicable investigation rules. The duty is product-, origin-, exporter-, and measure-specific and is separate from the ordinary tariff.
What is an anti-dumping duty?
An anti-dumping duty is an additional import duty that an importing country may impose after an investigation establishes that imported goods are dumped and cause injury to a domestic industry, subject to the applicable legal requirements. It is separate from the ordinary customs duty and may significantly affect the landed cost of a product.
What does dumping mean?
In trade law, dumping generally refers to exporting a product at a price below its normal value, as determined under the applicable rules. A low price alone does not automatically establish dumping or justify an anti-dumping duty.
When can an anti-dumping duty apply?
An importing authority generally needs an investigation and findings that dumping exists and causes or threatens material injury to a domestic industry, subject to the applicable legal requirements. The procedure includes defined evidence and opportunities for interested parties to participate.
How is the duty determined?
The amount depends on the findings and the rules of the importing jurisdiction. Rates may vary by product, country of origin, exporter or producer, and investigation result. The duty is additional to the ordinary customs duty and any other applicable charges.
How can importers check for a measure?
Search the importing country’s official trade-remedy or customs sources using the product description, tariff code, origin, and supplier information. Check the scope carefully because product descriptions, exclusions, and rates may be specific.
What should an importer do?
Before ordering, determine whether the product and origin fall within an existing measure and whether any documentation or special procedures apply. For material exposure, consult a customs broker or trade-remedy specialist; do not assume that a different shipping route changes origin.
Official reference
World Trade Organization glossary on anti-dumping duties: https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/glossary_e/anti_dumping_duties_e.htm
Recheck before shipment
Trade-remedy orders can be amended, reviewed, or extended. Confirm current measures for the exact product, origin, and exporter before estimating landed cost.