EU Customs: EU Judgment in Case T-402/20 Zippo Manufacturing and others v EU Commission

Wednesday 18th October 2023

General Court

Judgment in Case T-402/20 Zippo Manufacturing and others v Commission

(Commercial Policy)

In January 2020, the United States increased customs duties on imports of certain aluminium and steel products. The Commission took the view that this measure was designed to protect domestic industry from foreign competition. In response, from 8th May 2020 and until 31st December 2021, it imposed additional customs duties on imports into the EU of certain products originating in the United States, in particular lighters.

According to Zippo Manufacturing, it is the only known manufacturer of metal mechanical storm lighters in the United States. A significant proportion of its lighters, which it distributes under the Zippo brand, are imported into the EU. Taking the view that the increase in customs duties on its lighters had, inter alia, infringed the principle of sound administration and in particular its right to a prior hearing, Zippo brought an action before the General Court for annulment of the decision.

Background Documents T-402/20