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U.S., China Trade Battle Continues.

Issued at 2012-08-16



In another move to show force against China’s trade practices, the U.S. made a preliminary decision to impose tariffs on imports of wind energy towers from China.

The move comes as a response to a petition from U.S. wind tower manufacturers claiming China producers and exporters receive production subsidies, warranting U.S. tariffs. In June, the administration enforced a 31% tariff on solar panels, in response to Chinese subsidies that made U.S. solar panel producers less competitive. According to The Hill, the new tariff could reach as much as 73% on wind towers that support wind turbines, which contain a significant amount of metal castings.

According to Bloomberg, China is alleging unfair U.S. practices and last week said five U.S. states have renewable energy subsidies that violate free-trade rules. China also filed a World Trade Organization complaint, challenging U.S. import duties on Chinese products such as steel and solar products, according to press reports.

A final decision on the new tariffs will be made in August, though the U.S. Customs and Border Protection was ordered to collect cash deposits on the proposed hikes.


Source: American Foundry Society - AFS



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