US Targets Cheap Empty Capsules in Global Trade Crackdown
Published Date: 2/17/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. found that hard empty capsules from Brazil, China, India, and Vietnam are being sold unfairly cheap and getting government help, hurting American capsule makers. Because of this, the U.S. will take action to protect its industry, which could mean new import rules or tariffs soon. Companies importing these capsules should watch for changes that might affect prices and timing.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
ITC Finds U.S. Capsule Industry Injured
On February 12, 2026, the U.S. International Trade Commission determined that a U.S. industry producing hard empty capsules is materially injured by imports from China, India, and Vietnam and is threatened with material injury by imports from Brazil. The finding cites imports provided under HTSUS subheadings 9602.00.10 and 9602.00.50 and follows investigations that began October 24, 2024.
Commerce Found Dumping and Subsidies
The U.S. Department of Commerce found that hard empty capsules from Brazil, China, India, and Vietnam were sold in the United States at less than fair value (LTFV) and that imports from those countries were subsidized, as published December 29, 2025 (90 FR 60607–60628). The ITC made its determinations under sections 705(b) and 735(b) of the Tariff Act of 1930.
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