The U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has announced the continuation of antidumping duties on certain tin mill products imported from Japan. This decision comes after a thorough review process conducted by both Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), which determined that revoking the existing order would likely lead to a recurrence of dumping and material injury to the domestic steel industry.
The antidumping duty order, first implemented on August 28, 2000, has been a significant factor in regulating the import of Japanese tin mill products into the United States. Tin mill products, which include tin plate and tin-free steel, are crucial materials used in various industries, particularly in the packaging sector for food and beverage containers. The continuation of this order underscores the ongoing concerns about fair trade practices in the global steel market.
The review process, known as a sunset review, is mandated by U.S. trade law to occur every five years. This particular review, the fourth since the order's inception, was initiated on June 1, 2023. During the review, Commerce assessed the likelihood of dumping resuming if the order were to be revoked, while the ITC evaluated the potential for material injury to the U.S. industry. Both agencies concluded that the removal of the antidumping duties would likely result in unfair trade practices and harm to domestic producers.
The scope of the order covers a wide range of tin mill flat-rolled products coated or plated with tin, chromium, or chromium oxides. These products are classified under specific Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) subheadings, including 7210.11.0000, 7210.12.0000, 7210.50.0000, 7212.10.0000, and 7212.50.0000 for non-alloy steel, and 7225.99.0090 and 7226.99.0180 for alloy steel. The order applies regardless of the products' thickness, width, form, coating type, edge, coating thickness, surface finish, temper, or other specific characteristics.
It's important to note that certain products are specifically excluded from the scope of the order. These exclusions are detailed and technical, covering specific types of electrolytically chromium-coated steel, tin-coated sheet, and tin-free steel with particular chemical compositions and physical properties. These exclusions highlight the complexity of the steel trade and the need for precise definitions in trade regulations.
The continuation of the antidumping duty order will take effect on May 31, 2024. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will continue to collect antidumping duty cash deposits at the rates in effect at the time of entry for all imports of subject merchandise. This extension ensures that the protective measures will remain in place for at least another five years, after which Commerce intends to initiate the next sunset review.
