Aderholt Applauds Today's ITC Ruling In Favor of Tire Industry

Contact: Darrell “DJ” Jordan
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ADERHOLT APPLAUDS TODAY’S INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMSSION RULING IN FAVOR OF THE AMERICAN TIRE INDUSTRY

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement in support of today’s ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC) that a surge in tire imports from China threatens the U.S. tire industry. The International Trade Commissioners voted today in favor of the American tire industry by a vote of 4 to 2.

“The ITC found the evidence of a surge and market disruption compelling. I am hopeful that this is an indication that the Commission will recommend a sufficient remedy to President Obama,” said Congressman Aderholt. “If the ITC makes such a recommendation, President Obama will have his first major opportunity to make good on a campaign pledge to enforce trade laws vigorously and level the playing field for American workers.”

Congressman Aderholt continued, “U.S. workers, including many Alabamians, face the prospect of job losses if the current trade laws are not enforced. I am hopeful that this Administration and other trade representatives will look at the facts and propose a prompt solution.”

As a result of today’s affirmative determination, the Commission will consider the issue of remedy, with an expected announcement on June 29, 2009. It will send its report, including its remedy proposal, to the President and the U.S. Trade Representative by July 9, 2009. The President will make the final decision concerning whether to provide import relief to the industry and the type and duration of any such relief.

The United States International Trade Commission is an independent, non-partisan federal agency of the United States that provides trade expertise to both the legislative and executive branches.

This ITC trade case began when the United Steelworkers (USW) submitted a petition to the ITC under Section 421 of the Trade Act of 1974. Section 421 was adopted in 2000 as a condition for China’s entry into the World Trade Organization. Under the 421 safeguard mechanism, as it is known, companies or workers injured by import surges from China can petition for temporary relief in the form of reduced imports.

The USW petition explained how imports of passenger vehicle and light truck tires from China between 2004 and 2008 led to sharp declines in domestic production and over 5,000 job losses.

Congressman Aderholt testified in favor of import relief at an ITC hearing on June 2nd, arguing that it is crucial to preserve the jobs of some 3,000 workers at plants in Alabama, including about 1200 jobs at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Gadsden, AL.