In 1997, imports increased to 23,000 metric tons and reached 133,000 metric tons in 1999, nearly all of it from China. In it, the American companies contend that Chinese coke sells for less than its cost of production a violation of international trade law. U.S. producers are having a very difficult time holding on to their customer base because the Chinese foundry coke producers are engaging in unfair trade tactics. Many products of strategic important to the U.S. rely either directly or indirectly on coke for their continued production, including aircraft, tanks, engine blocks, ships and submarines. The American foundry coke industry plays a vital role in supporting U. S. industry.
Foundry coke is a strategic resource.
We cannot allow China to capture and control it. Following the vote at the ITC, the Department of Commerce will issue a preliminary determination of dumping. This determination is expected on February 27, 2001.