Canada Launches Trade Investigation into Chinese Forged Steel Grinding Balls

February 2026

In a move that could significantly impact international trade flows for a key industrial material, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has initiated a dual investigation into forged steel grinding balls imported from China.

The Core of the Matter: Anti-dumping and Countervailing

On January 9, 2026, the CBSA formally commenced inquiries following an application by a domestic Canadian producer. The probes target forged steel grinding balls, crucial consumables in the mining and cement industries for crushing ore, with diameters ranging from 25 to 160 millimeters.

The agency is investigating two primary allegations:

· Anti-dumping (AD): Whether these products are being sold in Canada at prices lower than their normal value in China.

· Countervailing (CVD): Whether the production and export of these goods benefit from unfair financial subsidies provided by the Chinese government.

Potential Consequences for the Market

This "double remedy" investigation represents a major development for North American industrial supply chains. If the CBSA's preliminary findings, expected around mid-2026, affirm the allegations, it could lead to the imposition of provisional duties on imports. A final determination confirming injury to the Canadian industry could result in long-term tariff barriers.

Such an outcome would directly affect procurement costs for Canadian mining and raw material processing companies that rely on these grinding media. It could also prompt a reshuffling of global supply chains, potentially benefiting producers in other countries.