The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) announced Thursday it will investigate allegations by U.S. Steel that Chinese steel companies conspired to fix prices, stole trade secrets and mislabeled products to avoid U.S. trade duties. The major trade case, filed under section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, has the potential to block carbon and alloy steel produced in China from entering the United States.
Said Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) President Scott Paul:
In a move not seen since 1978, U.S. Steel showed Washington that they are serious about saving thousands of steelworker jobs, and Washington has responded correctly by opening this investigation.
This is just the beginning of a long process — but an important one.
China continues to break its trade promises by flooding America’s open market with government-subsidized products priced far below fair market value, and American workers are paying the price with their livelihoods. More than 13,500 U.S. steelworkers currently face layoffs. Unless aggressive action is taken to prevent China’s destructive practices, many American steelmakers will face permanent closure.
It is time to hold Beijing accountable. Until we do, America’s steelworkers will continue to lose middle-class jobs because they are forced to compete against a foreign government masquerading as an industry.
Background Information: Will the ITC Investigate Claims China Fixed Prices, Stole Trade Secrets and Skirted Duties?
To schedule an interview with Scott Paul contact: Jet Moody at [email protected], 202-695-8216 or Matt McMullan, [email protected], 202-695-8108.