Jun 6 2005
Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) President William E. Gaskin expressed concern over the Department of Commerce (DOC) announcement that April imports for hot- and cold-rolled sheets -- the raw materials important for steel consuming companies -- decreased from March levels. The DOC reported hot-rolled steel imports for April at 267,000 metric tons (a 13% decrease compared to March) and cold-rolled steel imports at 180,000 metric tons (a one percent decline compared to March levels).
"While overall steel import levels rose by nine percent in April 2005 compared to March 2005, the decrease in hot- and cold-rolled sheets causes concern for the metalforming industry," said Gaskin. "These are the products most used by PMA members, and it is critically important that they are able to obtain the necessary quantity of steel at globally competitive prices."
Gaskin continued, "If imports of hot- and cold-rolled steel continue at the same pace of the first four months of this year, the projected total for these imports in 2005 will be nearly 5.5 million metric tons -- approximately 11% lower than the 6.2 million metric tons of this material that was imported last year."
Gaskin explained that last month, dozens of PMA members joined together on Capitol Hill to brief Members of Congress on the problems that steel consumers have experienced with steel supply over the past several years including severe market disruptions after termination of the Section 201 steel tariffs 18 months ago.
"To keep our steel consuming industry vital and strong, we need access to steel imports. Currently, there are dozens of unnecessary import duties on steel products in place that continue to distort the U.S. market for steel. This is an issue that must be addressed by our elected officials if U.S.-based manufacturers are to compete at a global level."
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