Critz Joins Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers in Calling for Immediate WTO Action on China's Duties on American Vehicle Imports

Press Release

Congressman Mark S. Critz (PA-12) joined 27 of his Democratic and Republican colleagues today in urging President Obama to initiate a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute contesting the recent duties imposed on American vehicles by China.

China's Ministry of Commerce recently announced that China will levy antidumping and countervailing duties on imports from the United States of some vehicles with engine capacities over 2.5 liters. Before these new duties took effect on December 15, 2011, already existing taxes and duties could add 25 percent or more to the cost of an American vehicle imported to China. The new antidumping and countervailing duties could add up to 21.5 percent and 12.9 percent respectively to the cost of imported American vehicles, making them significantly less competitive in the Chinese market.

"American workers are the best in the world and we must allow them to compete on a level playing field," wrote the lawmakers. "…your Administration must continue working to help American manufacturers fight foreign trade barriers, boost exports, and create jobs."

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