Tipton Acts to Prevent Illegal Foreign Trade Practices, Protect U.S. Steel Jobs

Congressman Scott Tipton (CO-03), along with 42 other members of the Congressional Steel Caucus, recently sent a letter to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) asking the agency to use its full authority to fight illegal foreign trade practices that have undermined the U.S. steel industry.

In recent years, foreign countries, especially China, have utilized a method called “dumping” to offer imported steel products at a price that is lower than the U.S. domestic price. This process has impacted American steel manufacturers, causing plants like Evraz Steel in Pueblo, CO, to lay off workers, while other manufacturers have had to close their doors completely.

“We have worked hard in Congress to ensure that American manufacturers have a level playing field with foreign competitors, but countries like China are taking advantage of U.S. agencies’ lax enforcement of existing trade laws,” said Tipton. “I have supported numerous pieces of legislation to protect U.S. steel jobs, and this letter to CBP is a reminder to the administration that Congress is committed to ensuring a level playing field for U.S. manufacturing.”

Tipton supported the Trade Preferences Extension Act (H.R. 1295) and the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (H.R. 644), which were both signed into law earlier this year. The two bills reinforce Congress’ intention to prevent steel dumping and protect American manufacturers when there is evidence that foreign dumping practices have negatively impacted their business.

Tipton has assured Colorado manufacturers that ensuring trade enforcement laws remain effective, while also giving agencies such as the CBP the proper measures to combat dumping and other harmful trade practices of foreign countries, will remain urgent matters for Congress.

“The free market will dictate commodity prices, but it is important that we make sure U.S. manufacturers have the ability to compete globally,” Tipton added. “As Congress continues to pass legislation that helps grow our economy and strengthen our domestic manufacturing base, we must also ensure that the agencies continue to faithfully execute the laws.”

The full letter to R. Gil Kerlikowske, Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, can be viewed here. Read more about Tipton’s recent work to combat steel dumping here.