Panel Rejects Complaint by U.S. Steelmakers

Circular seamless stainless pipes imported from Japan are not hurting American steel companies, the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled. The panel voted 4 to 2 to dismiss the complaint of six U.S. steelmakers and the United Steelworkers of America. Circular seamless stainless pipes are used in nuclear and conventional power plants, stock lines for petrochemical facilities, pharmaceutical production lines and food-processing equipment. The decision follows a March ruling by the Commerce Department that the steel is sold in the United States at less than fair market value. But both the Commerce Department and the commission must rule against a foreign producer before penalties are imposed.