The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has announced that it has decided to terminate the investigation into imports of certain carbon and alloy steel products by Chinese companies, launched upon the application lodged by US-based United States Steel Corporation (US Steel) alleging the violation of the antitrust laws of the US, known as Section 337.
The commission started an investigation into imports of the mentioned products from China on June 2, 2016, based on US Steel’s complaint alleging violations of Section 337 based upon the importation into the US, or in the sale after importation of certain carbon and alloy steel products by reason of a conspiracy to fix prices and control output and export volumes, misappropriation and use of trade secrets and false designation of origin or manufacturer. The investigation covered 40 respondents that are Chinese steel manufacturers or distributors, as well as some of their Hong Kong and US affiliates.
The ITC stated that it has found that US Steel has failed to plead antitrust injury and has taken the position that, if given the opportunity to amend the complaint, it will not be able to plead or demonstrate antitrust injury. Accordingly, the commission has determined to terminate the investigation.