Commerce Launches Scope Inquiries Based on CBP AD Duty Evasion Investigations

The Commerce Department is beginning a trio of scope inquiries in conjunction with three CBP Enforce and Protect Act antidumping and countervailing duty evasion investigations, it said. Commerce will determine whether merchandise imported by LM Supply is subject to AD/CV duties on hydrofluorocarbon blends from China (A-570-028), and in particular whether the scope exemption for Choice R-421A is limited only to merchandise licensed by the rights holder and carrying certain trademarks. The agency will also rule on whether certain merchandise imported by Aspects Furniture International -- a desk/console table with drawers, a credenza/trunk storage/cabinet with a minibar, a console/custom dresser and a bed bench base -- are covered by antidumping duties on wooden bedroom furniture from China (A-570-890). In its third inquiry, Commerce will determine whether sawblades laser welded in Thailand before being imported by Diamond Tools Technology are subject to antidumping duties on diamond sawblades from China (A-570-900). Domestic manufacturers and producers allege all three importers are evading AD duties (see 1712050037 and 1708170024).