Global Geopolitical Series: U.S. imposes duties on steel wheels from China

In a continuation of the toughened stance against both Allies and adversaries, the U.S.  Commerce Department imposed duties on certain steel wheels (12 to 16.5 inches in diameter) from China. The United States, in 2017, imported $73.8 million worth of the above-mentioned wheel, according to data from the U.S. Commerce Department.

The investigation was initiated petition filed by Worthington Industries of Ohio and Manchester Tank & Equipment Co. from Tennessee. The petitioners alleged a dumping margin of 119.37-122.55 percent and existence of 27 subsidy programs to support exporters in case of China including five preferential loan and interest rate programs, two export credit programs, five income tax and other direct subsidy programs, four indirect tax programs, six grant programs, and five less than adequate remuneration programs.

The department has found in its investigation that exporters from China have sold the steel wheels at less than fair value in the United States at rates of 38.27 to 44.35 percent. In addition to that, the exporters have received countervailable subsidies at rates from 386.45 to 388.31 percent.

Under President Trump, the Commerce Department is practicing strict enforcement of U.S. trade law, as the above-mentioned investigations have increased by 219 percent, compared to his predecessor.