The Mexican Secretary of Economy has started an anti-dumping investigation into imports of hot rolled coil (HRC) from China, France and Germany.
The action follows a request from Mexico's largest integrated steelmaker, Altos Hornos de México (Ahmsa), and Ternium Mexico, which claim that HRC imports from these countries have been affecting their businesses and the domestic industry, according to a resolution published in Mexico's official gazette on Friday September 26.
"Imports have been entering the Mexican market at unfair prices," both steelmakers said. Products under investigation are classified under tariff codes 72083601, 72083701, 72083801, 72083901, 72253002, 72253003 and 72253099.
The Mexican authorities will now investigate imports in the period between January 1 and December 31, 2013. During that year, HRC imports from China, France and Germany increased by 737 percent, according to the resolution. Companies involved include Chinese firms Angang Group lnternational Trade Corp, Angang New Steel, Baoshan lron & Steel Co, Baosteel Group Corp, as well as European companies ArcelorMittal and ThyssenKrupp, among others, the Ministry said. The exporters are required to file arguments in their defense within 23 days, starting from October 3.