In-Depth Article on the “Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act”
The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has commended the introduction of the “Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act” as a critical step to safeguard American industries, particularly steel manufacturers, from the adverse effects of international trade violations. The bill, introduced by Representatives Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), alongside Chairman of the Select Committee on China, John Moolenaar (R-MI), aims to fortify the enforcement of U.S. customs and trade laws.
The legislation specifically targets trade crimes that negatively impact the U.S. economy, such as fraud, transshipment (illegally rerouting goods through third-party countries to avoid tariffs), and duty evasion. The bill proposes the establishment of a specialized task force within the Department of Justice to address these crimes, focusing on the prosecution of foreign entities, especially those based in China, that are seen to circumvent U.S. trade regulations.
Kevin Dempsey, president and CEO of AISI, praised the bill, stating that strict enforcement of U.S. trade laws is crucial to protect American steel manufacturers and their workers. “For too long, China has circumvented U.S. trade laws by engaging in fraudulent practices, transshipment, and evasion of duties,” Dempsey said in his statement. He further emphasized that these actions have significantly harmed American businesses, particularly in the steel industry.
The bill’s introduction comes at a time when the U.S. steel industry faces increasing challenges from unfair trade practices that undermine domestic production and employment. By ensuring that foreign actors who violate trade laws face appropriate legal consequences, the bill seeks to level the playing field for American manufacturers and secure jobs for American workers in the steel sector.
Key Takeaways:
• The “Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act” was introduced by Representatives Ashley Hinson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and John Moolenaar.
• The bill calls for the creation of a task force within the Department of Justice to prosecute trade crimes such as fraud, transshipment, and duty evasion.
• AISI supports the bill, citing its importance in protecting the U.S. steel industry and American workers.
• Kevin Dempsey of AISI emphasized the need for stringent enforcement of U.S. trade laws to combat unfair practices, particularly those associated with China.
• The bill aims to curb the negative impact of international trade crimes on U.S. businesses, especially in the steel sector.
• If passed, the bill will empower federal prosecutors to act against entities circumventing U.S. trade regulations.
