Competition Bureau advocates for competition in drywall markets

Bureau’s participation highlights impacts on competition from duties on US drywall

November 28, 2016 — OTTAWA, ON — Competition Bureau

The Competition Bureau is providing expert advice to the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) at a hearing regarding duties on drywall imported from the US into Western Canada.

In its submission to the CITT, the Bureau analyses the harmful impact that duties on US drywall may have on competition, prices and consumers of drywall in Western Canada.

Those affected by duties would include drywall contractors, building supply outlets, specialty dealers, lumber merchants, home owners, do-it-yourself customers and commercial customers.

To assist the CITT, the Competition Bureau has provided a framework to assess the competitive harm arising from the duties. The framework is similar to analyses performed by the Bureau when investigating impacts on competition under the Competition Act.

Quick facts

  • Open, competitive markets are the most effective means to ensure that businesses and consumers have access to a broad range of products and services at the lowest cost and most competitive prices.
  • Drywall, also known as gypsum board, is a widely‑used construction material for ceilings and interior walls for residential and commercial buildings.
  • The Bureau’s expert witness will appear before the CITT on Monday December 5, 2016.
  • CITT’s final decision is anticipated for the first week of January 2017.

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The Competition Bureau, as an independent law enforcement agency, ensures that Canadian businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.