Rebar imports rise in the European market

Rebar imports rise in the European market

Industry insiders claim there are signs that rebar imports from Turkey and Latvia into the EU are on the rise. Sources say statistics reveal that for January and February of 2002, rebar imports came in at about 120,000/mt with some at 70% up for the same period in 2001. Reports indicate that Latvia and Turkey are the primary suppliers followed by Moldova and Belarus. Insiders claim that some of the tonnage seems to be diverted from the U.S. while some could have been exported to the EC prior to tariff measures being imposed. Latvia is exempt from U.S. tariffs under the status of “developing country.” Some steel executives report that if rebar imports into the EU continue at their present levels, antidumping action won't be far behind.