Coated Paper Controversy: Paper Case Cuts Both Ways
The petition relates to "certain coated paper," i.e., coated paper "suitable for high-quality print graphics using sheetfed presses," whether containing groundwood fiber or not. If the petitioners are successful, the government will impose duties on these imports.
The issue becomes emotional. Certainly, individuals whose business is affected either favorably or unfavorably by the imports have strong opinions. Others I've spoken with, including economists and other industry people representing printers, merchants and mills, have also expressed strong opinions on both sides. Some feel strongly that there should be unrestricted free trade, and that tariffs in general are disruptive. Conversely, others feel that we have lost our manufacturing base to subsidized imports, and want a level playing field. Major trade associations, including Printing Industries of America (PIA), NPTA and AF&PA, have all remained neutral, basically saying that they support free and fair trade.
Jack Miller is founder and Principal Consultant at Market-Intell LLC, offering Need to Know™ market intelligence in paper, print and packaging. Previously, he was senior consultant, North America, with Pira International.
Known as the Paper Guru, Jack is the former director of Market Intelligence with Domtar, where he also held positions as regional sales manager, territory sales manager and product manager. He has presented at On Demand, RISI’s Global Outlook, PRIMIR, SustainCom World and at various IntertechPira conferences. Jack has written for Printing Impressions, Canadian Printer, Paper 360, PaperTree Letter and Package Printing, along with publishing a monthly e-newsletter, MarketIntellibits.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from The College of the Holy Cross and has done graduate studies in Statistics and Finance.
