International Trade Law News

Today the six U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) commissioners announced their remedy proposals in the market disruption investigation on certain ductile iron waterworks fittings from China. Today's action follows the ITC's unanimous December 4, 2003 determination that certain ductile iron waterworks fittings from China are causing disruption to the U.S. industry.

Chairman Deanna Tanner Okun and Commissioners Stephen Koplan, Charlotte R. Lane and Daniel R. Pearson announced that they will propose that the President impose a tariff-rate quota for a three-year period. In the first year, they will propose an additional 50 percent tariff on imports exceeding 14,324 short tons; in the second year, an additional 40 percent tariff on imports exceeding 15,398 short tons; and in the third year, an additional 30 percent tariff on imports exceeding 16,553 short tons. They also recommended that, if applications are filed, the President direct the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Labor to provide expedited consideration of trade adjustment assistance for firms and/or workers affected by the subject imports.

Vice Chairman Jennifer A. Hillman announced that she will propose that the President impose a quota on imports for a three-year period at the following levels: 14,324 short tons in the first year of relief; 15,398 short tons in the second year of relief; and 16,553 short tons in the third year of relief.

Commissioner Marcia E. Miller announced that she will propose that the President impose a tariff increase for a three-year period at the following levels: 50 percent ad valorem in the first year of relief; 40 percent ad valorem in the second year of relief, and 30 percent ad valorem in the third year of relief.

The ITC will submit a report to the President and the USTR by December 24, 2003. The report will include the Commissioners' determinations, views, and remedy proposals. The President will make the final decision whether to provide relief to the U.S. industry and the type and amount of relief.