The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has launched an interim review of the anti-dumping measures currently applied to imports of ceramic tableware and kitchenware from China, prompting concern across the UK homewares sector.
Anti-dumping duties, which currently range from 13% to 36.1%, are intended to protect UK industries from lower-priced imports. However, despite the existing measures, imports of Chinese ceramic tableware and kitchenware increased by 22% between 2023 and 2025, leading the TRA to investigate whether the current duties remain effective.
The review has drawn criticism from UK importers, who argue that further increases could place additional pressure on British businesses that rely on imported products.
Julian Hunt, Managing Director of Lesser & Pavey, described the review as “totally unjustified”, arguing that the current duty levels are already sufficient to protect what he says is a UK manufacturing base that has largely disappeared. He also challenged the TRA’s suggestion that Chinese prices have fallen significantly, pointing instead to rising production costs in China, including energy, raw materials and wages.
Hunt warned that any further increase in duties could lead to significant price rises, supply chain pressures and potential job losses, urging businesses across the sector to engage with the consultation process.
The Giftware Association Managing Director Gemma Sault echoed concerns, saying while the association supports fair competition for UK manufacturers, it is equally important that the impact on importers, distributors, retailers and brands is fully considered.
She said additional duties could increase cost pressures throughout the supply chain, affecting product availability, consumer choice and affordability, adding that the association will work with members to ensure the industry’s views are represented during the review.
In a joint statement, TRA co-chief executives Jessica Blakely and Carmen Suarez said the review had been launched in response to evidence of continued dumping from China and reflected the organisation’s commitment to an “accessible, assertive and agile trade remedies system.”
Businesses affected by the investigation have until 4 August 2026 to register their interest with the TRA.
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/trade-remedies-authority
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