PITTSBURGH — The United Steelworkers (USW) union welcomed today's decision by the International Trade Commission (ITC) to proceed with an investigation into the alleged dumping in the U.S. of truck/bus tires built in Thailand, calling it a "step in the right direction toward leveling the playing field."
The ITC, in a 4-0 vote by the body's commissioners, authorized a full investigation into allegations that certain manufacturers based in Thailand are selling truck/bus tires in the U.S. at less than fair valuation.
The ITC's decision addresses a petition filed by the USW on Oct. 17 seeking relief from what the union deems "illegally" dumped tires.
A final determination by the Commerce Department on duties is not expected before late May 2024, according to a timetable in a recent Federal Register notice.
"USW members take immense pride in making high-quality truck and bus tires, but the recent spike in imports from Thailand, underwritten by Chinese investments, put both their jobs and the communities they support at risk," USW International President David McCall said.
"We're gratified that the ITC in its preliminary determination affirmed our position and provided a path forward to protecting U.S. tire makers from illegally dumped products.
"USW members are highly skilled, but they need rigorous enforcement of our nation's trade laws. Today's decision is a step in the right direction toward leveling the playing field."
The USW represents workers at five plants in the U.S. that produce truck/bus tires: Bridgestone Americas Inc. plants in La Vergne and Morrison, Tenn., Goodyear facilities in Danville, Va., and Topeka, Kan., and Sumitomo Rubber North America's plant in Tonawanda, N.Y.
