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| EU Imposes Tariffs on Imports of Steel Pipe From China | |
| Date:2009-07-29 [ Back ] | |
| European Union trade officials approved pre-emptive penalties on imports of steel pipe from China, a precedent-setting move that suggests the trading bloc is growing more protectionist in the face of the economic downturn. Tuesday's vote by trade officials from the EU's 27 member states is significant, say trade experts, because they accepted an argument from steel producers -- including the world's largest by volume, ArcelorMittal -- that punitive tariffs are needed to protect them from the threat of underpriced imports from China. Previously, complainants have had to prove the imports had already hurt their businesses. Trade lawyers say they expect a host of industries to ask the EU for protective tariffs in August. The case also concerns one of the steel sector's most important finished products. Seamless steel pipes are major parts in housing construction, gas and oil plants and the automotive industry. The vote was close, according to EU officials familiar with the matter, although they declined to reveal the final tally. After clearing procedural hurdles, the duties, which will range from 17.7% to 39.2%, are expected to take effect in October and last five years, EU officials said. Temporary duties of up to 24.2% have been in place since April. Chinese officials say they are preparing a case at the World Trade Organization against the EU and the U.S. over steel tariffs. On Monday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a statement saying it was "gravely concerned" about antidumping duties on Chinese imports in the U.S. and the EU. |
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