The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) initiated a safeguard investigation on 5 August 2026 into imports to the UK of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the body announced that day. It said this was the first new safeguard case it had opened since being established after EU exit in 2021. The investigation follows an application from Alpek Polyester UK, a Redcar-based producer of polyester products.

The TRA said it would assess whether PET is being imported in such increased quantities that serious injury is being caused to UK domestic production. PET is used in beverage bottles, food packaging and textiles. According to the announcement, total PET imports in 2025 were worth over £300 million. The investigation period covers 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025.

A safeguard measure is described as an emergency, temporary response to increased imports causing serious injury. If imposed, it would apply to imports globally, with some exceptions such as certain developing countries, and could require an additional duty. Interested parties were encouraged to register through the TRA's online platform by 19 August 2026, and upstream and downstream businesses could take part in a survey.