The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has today, 5 August 2026, launched a new safeguard investigation into imports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into the UK. This marks the first new safeguard case undertaken by the TRA since its formation in 2021 following the UK's exit from the EU.
The investigation was prompted by an application from Alpek Polyester UK, a polyester producer based in Redcar. The TRA will assess whether the increased quantities of PET imports are causing serious injury to the UK's domestic production.
PET is a plastic used in beverage bottles, food packaging, and textiles. In 2025, the total value of PET imports exceeded £300 million. A safeguard measure, if imposed, would be a temporary emergency action applying globally to most imports and could involve an additional duty.
Businesses and other interested parties affected by the investigation are encouraged to register their interest and contribute via the TRA’s online platform by 19 August 2026.