What does the scope of the investigation define?

• A. It defines the products, markets, and downstream effects under scrutiny, including HS codes, country of origin, and time period.
• B. It only covers the domestic impacts on consumer prices.
• C. It determines the acceptable remedies.
• D. It sets the tariff rates to be applied.

Answer: (A)

Defining the scope of the investigation sets the boundaries for what is being examined. It specifies exactly which products are included (often using HS codes and product descriptions), which markets or sources are relevant (including the country of origin), and the time period over which data and effects are analyzed. This framing ensures the data collected and the analysis conducted stay focused on the intended subjects and timeframe, and it helps identify the downstream effects to assess—such as potential impacts on prices, demand, or market behavior. The other options miss the breadth or purpose of scope: it’s not limited to domestic consumer price impacts, it doesn’t decide remedies, and it doesn’t set tariff rates.