SPC takes aim at cheap Italian tomatoes

19/01/2015 12:00 - 494 Views

Fruit processor SPC Ardmona alleges the dumping of imported Italian tomatoes is squeezing its profits.

The company, owned by Coca-Cola Amatil, lodged a complaint with the Anti-Dumping Commission in November, claiming Italian firms Feger and La Doria had sold preserved tomatoes well below their normal value.

Commissioner Dale Seymour confirmed on Monday the federal government agency would investigate SPC's allegation that cheap tomatoes from Italy, sold during 2014, had reduced its profits, profitability, sales volumes and market share.

If the commission concludes dumping has occurred, Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane would have the power to have interim dumping tariffs imposed on the produce.

The commission previously investigated Feger and La Doria in 2013 and decided to exempt the companies from such fees.

SPC's complaint relates to peeled and unpeeled tomatoes that have been diced, chopped or crushed, and sold in 300 gram, 850 gram and 1.14 litre cans, jars and packs.

The Anti-Dumping Commission investigation comes almost a year after Coca-Cola Amatil and the Victorian government put together a $100 million package to save SPC's Goulburn Valley fruit cannery.

Source: sbs.com.au