U.S. Pizza Box Industry Calls for Action Against Unfair Trade Practices from Abroad

The American Pizza Boxes Manufacturers Coalition has taken a strong stand against unfair import practices that threaten the stability of the U.S. pizza box industry. On September 9, 2026, this coalition, along with the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union, filed petitions with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC). The petitions allege that imports of corrugated pizza boxes from key countries, including China, Malaysia, and Turkey are being sold at prices significantly below fair market value, thus causing harm to American manufacturers.

The filed petitions reveal alarming statistics about the extent of these unfair trading practices. Importers from China are reportedly dumping their products at rates that range from 96.62% to an astounding 568.50%. Meanwhile, imports from Malaysia are coming in at a dumping rate of 110.73%, and Turkey follows closely with rates between 120.65% and 210.37%. These inflated import volumes have surged by 130% between 2023 and 2025, which highlights a troubling trend for U.S. manufacturers.

These practices not only threaten the livelihood of domestic producers but also jeopardize thousands of jobs within the industry. Robert E. DeFrancesco, a partner at Wiley Rein LLP who represents the coalition, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, "Trade relief is necessary to remedy the injurious effects unfairly traded imports have had on the U.S. pizza box industry." The call for antidumping and countervailing duties is aimed at restoring fairness in the market and protecting domestic workers.

Additionally, the coalition has raised concerns over the significant subsidies provided by foreign governments, particularly Turkey. These subsidies—which include tax breaks and discounted raw materials—provide these countries with an unfair competitive advantage, further undermining U.S. businesses. Reports indicate that the Russian government also plays a role in providing cross-border subsidies benefiting Turkish producers, exacerbating the already complex situation.

The importance of the U.S. pizza box industry cannot be overstated; it is integral to not only the manufacturing sector but the food service industry as well. By implementing fair trade policies, it is believed that U.S. manufacturers can regain market share and stimulate economic growth.

The next steps involve the U.S. Department of Commerce determining whether to initiate investigations within 20 days of the filing. Furthermore, the USITC is expected to reach preliminary determinations on material injury within 45 days, signaling the urgency behind these petitions. It is anticipated that full investigations could take around a year, with final determinations being announced by late 2027.

In conclusion, the petitions filed by the American Pizza Boxes Manufacturers Coalition represent a critical step toward safeguarding American manufacturing and maintaining fair trade practices. The outcome of these investigations will be pivotal in determining the future of the U.S. pizza box industry, ensuring it remains viable and competitive in an increasingly challenging global marketplace.