The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) issued a decision on October 30, 2024, on the importation of aluminum extrusions from 14 jurisdictions, concluding that U.S. industry is not materially injured or threatened with material injury because of these imports. The decision will have significant implications for U.S. importers and the broader aluminum industry.
The investigation into aluminum extrusions began as a response to concerns raised by U.S. manufacturers about the impact of imported aluminum products on domestic industry (for prior coverage, see Petitions Filed for Antidumping and Countervailing Duties Against Aluminum Products from 15 Countries, dated October 19, 2023). Aluminum extrusion imports—originating from various jurisdictions such as China, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam—were alleged to be sold at less than fair value and subsidized by certain foreign governments. The U.S. Department of Commerce conducted preliminary investigations and found evidence supporting these claims, prompting the USITC to further examine whether the imports were causing material injury or posed a threat to the U.S. aluminum industry.
Key Findings of the USITC
In a 2-1 decision (with one commissioner abstaining from participation), the ITC determined that the U.S. industry is neither materially injured nor threatened with material injury by the imports of aluminum extrusions from these jurisdictions. As a result, no antidumping (AD) or countervailing duty (CVD) orders will be issued against imports of aluminum extrusions.
While the decision is favorable for certain exporters and importers, petitioners retain the right to appeal the USITC decision to the Court of International Trade (CIT) or to refile a modified petition. However, any new AD/CVD measures would not be applied retroactively to current imports. Exporters and importers should continue to monitor updates and developments from the Court of International Trade, ITC, Department of Commerce, and other relevant authorities to stay informed about potential changes that could impact their operations.
Implications for U.S. Importers
As a result of the ITC decision, U.S. importers will not face AD/CVD liability on aluminum extrusions from the specified jurisdictions. Any AD/CVD cash deposits previously paid will be refunded by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with the mechanism and process for refund to be announced in the near future. This outcome spares importers and domestic consumers from additional costs on a broad range of aluminum products.
It is important to note that the 2011 AD/CVD orders on aluminum extrusions from China remain in effect. Importers must continue to comply with these orders and deposit AD/CVD on merchandise falling within the scope of the orders.
How BDO Can Help
BDO’s Customs & International Trade Services team assists businesses in understanding the implications of trade rulings like the ITC's decision on aluminum extrusions. We also offer support in navigating trade regulations and managing global trade beyond the context of antidumping and countervailing duties. Our services cover a broad range of trade compliance, cost savings, and refund topics including compliance assessments, country of origin and tariff classification determination, customs valuation, foreign trade zones, duty drawback, and trade data analytics.