USITC MAKES DETERMINATIONS IN FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEW CONCERNING CERTAIN COATED PAPER SUITABLE OR HIGH-QUALITY PRINT GRAPHICS USING SHEET-FED PRESSES FROM CHINA AND INDONESIA

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders on imports of certain coated paper suitable for high-quality print graphics using sheet-fed presses from China and Indonesia would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing orders on imports of this product from China and Indonesia will remain in place. 

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative. 

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act.  See the attached page for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report Certain Coated Paper Suitable for High-Quality Print Graphics Using Sheet-Fed Presses from China and Indonesia (Inv. Nos. 701-TA-470-471 and 731-TA-1169-1170 (Second Review), USITC Publication 5330, June 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews.

The report will be available by June 23, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: https://www.usitc.gov/commission_publications_library.

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time.

The Commission’s institution notice in five-year reviews requests that interested parties file responses with the Commission concerning the likely effects of revoking the order under review as well as other information. Generally within 95 days from institution, the Commission will determine whether the responses it has received reflect an adequate or inadequate level of interest in a full review.  If responses to the USITC’s notice of institution are adequate, or if other circumstances warrant a full review, the Commission conducts a full review, which includes a public hearing and issuance of questionnaires. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0518ll1938.htm

USITC VOTES TO CONTINUE INVESTIGATIONS ON WHITE GRAPE JUICE CONCENTRATE FROM ARGENTINA

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that there is a reasonable indication that a U.S. industry is materially injured by reason of imports of white grape juice concentrate from Argentina that are allegedly subsidized by the government of Argentina and sold in the United States at less than fair value.

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative.

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the U.S. Department of Commerce will continue its investigations of imports of white grape juice concentrate from Argentina, with its preliminary countervailing duty determination due on or about June 24, 2022 and its preliminary antidumping duty determination due on or about September 7, 2022.

The Commission’s public report White Grape Juice Concentrate from Argentina (Inv. Nos. 701-TA-681 and 731-TA-1591 (Preliminary), USITC Publication 5328, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the investigations.

The report will be available after June 13, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: https://www.usitc.gov/commission_publications_library.

UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20436

FACTUAL HIGHLIGHTS

White Grape Juice Concentrate from Argentina

Investigation Nos. 701-TA-681 and 731-TA-1591 (Preliminary)

Product Description: White grape juice concentrate is concentrated 100 percent grape juice produced from grapes of the Vitis vinifera L. species. White grape juice concentrate has a Brix level of 65 to 68, in frozen or non‐frozen forms. The scope covers white grape juice concentrate regardless of whether it has been certified as kosher, organic, or organic kosher. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0513ll1937.htm

APHIS Invites U.S. Stakeholders to Comment on the Draft NAPPO Strategic Plan

On May 12, the North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO) posted on its website the draft NAPPO Strategic Plan for consultation (review and commenting). APHIS is inviting U.S. stakeholders to submit comments to PPQ on the draft by June 8.

For a copy the draft, and specific instructions for submitting comments to PPQ on the NAPPO documents, visit the NAPPO consultation website. Comments should fall into one of three categories: substantial, technical, or editorial. Please provide alternative wording and a justification for any suggested amendments.

For more information, contact PPQ’s NAPPO Technical Director, Stephanie Dubon at stephanie.m.dubon@usda.gov.

Upcoming Events and Activities

NAPPO will hold its annual meeting virtually from October 18-20, 2022. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to participate. Please visit the NAPPO Annual Meeting website for more information.

Stay Involved! U.S. stakeholders are vital to the work of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and NAPPO. Your input on proposed projects, review of draft standards and documents, and participation in IPPC and NAPPO events ensures we are developing relevant standards that advance U.S. harmonization goals. Standards facilitate the safe trade of plants, plant products and other regulated articles, harmonize plant protection policies and practices among and between trading partners in North America and internationally, and provide a critical framework for addressing phytosanitary trade issues and negotiating market access requests.

Spread the Word! If you represent a large organization or association, please distribute this message to your membership.

Stay Connected! To receive these updates in your inbox, please subscribe to the APHIS Stakeholder Registry and select the “International Phytosanitary Standards” topic. Read More→

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/stakeholder-info/stakeholder-messages/plant-health-news/nappo-strategic-plan

Sea Turtle Conservation and Shrimp Imports into the United States

The U.S. Department of State works to protect sea turtles around the world through its certification program, which allows for the importation of wild-caught shrimp into the United States, pursuant to Section 609 of Public Law 101-162 (“Section 609”).  Each year, the Secretary of State (or his delegate) certifies to Congress those governments and authorities of shrimp-harvesting nations and economies that have programs to reduce the incidental taking of sea turtles in shrimp trawl fisheries that are comparable to the United States, or that their particular fishing environments do not pose a threat of the incidental taking of sea turtles.

This year, the Department certified 37 nations and one economy, and granted determinations for thirteen fisheries as having adequate measures in place to protect sea turtles while harvesting wild-caught shrimp.  Annual certifications and determinations are based in part on overseas verification visits by a team composed of Department of State and NOAA Fisheries representatives.

Six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles are listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act.  The U.S. government is currently providing technology and capacity-building assistance to other nations to help them meet the standard for certification under Section 609 and to contribute to the recovery of sea turtle species.  The U.S. government also encourages legislation like Section 609 in other nations to prevent the importation of shrimp harvested in a manner harmful to protected sea turtles.

For more information on the Certification to Congress, please see the Federal Register Notice published on May 13, 2022, 87 FR 29425.  For more information on U.S. government sea turtle conservation efforts, please visit the websites of the State Department’s Office of Marine Conservation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration , and the Fish and Wildlife Service .

https://www.state.gov/sea-turtle-conservation-and-shrimp-imports-into-the-united-states-2/

RAW HONEY FROM ARGENTINA, BRAZIL, INDIA, AND VIETNAM INJURES U.S. INDUSTRY, SAYS USITC

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that a U.S. industry is materially injured by reason of imports of raw honey from Argentina, Brazil, India, and Vietnam that the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has determined are sold in the United States at less than fair value.

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, Commerce will issue antidumping duty orders on imports of this product from Argentina, Brazil, India, and Vietnam.

The Commission made a negative critical circumstances finding with regard to imports of this product from Argentina. The Commission made an affirmative critical circumstances finding with regard to imports of this product from Vietnam. 

The Commission’s public report Raw Honey from Argentina, Brazil, India, and Vietnam (Inv. Nos. 731-TA-1560-1562 and 731-TA-1564 (Final), USITC Publication 5327, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the investigations.

The report will be available by June 20, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: http://pubapps.usitc.gov/applications/publogs/qry_publication_loglist.asp.

UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20436

FACTUAL HIGHLIGHTS

Raw Honey from Argentina, Brazil, India, and Vietnam
Investigation Nos.: 731-TA-1560-1562, 1564 (Final)

Product Description:  Honey is a sweet, viscous fluid produced from the nectar of plants and flowers which is collected by honeybees, transformed, and combined with substances of their own, and stored and left in honeycombs to mature and ripen. Raw honey is honey as it exists in the beehive or as obtained by extraction, settling and skimming, or straining. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0511ll1935.htm

USITC MAKES DETERMINATIONS IN FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEW CONCERNING HEAVY FORGED HAND TOOLS FROM CHINA

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping duty orders on imports of heavy forged hand tools from China would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing orders on imports of the following classes or kinds of heavy forged hand tools from China: (1) axes and adzes, (2) bars and wedges, (3) hammers and sledges, and (4) picks and mattocks will remain in place. 

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative. 

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act.  See the attached page for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report Heavy Forged Hand Tools from China (Inv. Nos. 731-TA-457-A-D (Fifth Review), USITC Publication 5326, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews.

The report will be available by June 10, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: https://www.usitc.gov/commission_publications_library.

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0509ll1928.htm

Raimondo Announces Temporary Suspension of 232 Tariffs on Ukraine Steel

Suspended tariffs will bolster one of Ukraine’s most important industries

Today, United States Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced the United States of America will be temporarily suspending 232 tariffs on Ukrainian steel for one year.  Ukraine’s steel industry is uniquely important to the country’s economic strength, employing 1 in 13 Ukrainians with good-paying jobs.

Some of Ukraine’s largest steel communities have been among those hardest hit by Putin’s barbarism, and the steel mill in Mariupol has become a lasting symbol of Ukraine’s determination to resist Russia’s aggression. Many of Ukraine’s steel mills have continued to pay, feed, and even shelter their employees over the course of fighting. Despite nearby fighting, some Ukrainian mills have even started producing again.   

Creating export opportunities for these mills is essential to their ability to continue employing their workers and maintaining one of Ukraine’s most important industries.

Statement from Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo:

“Steelworkers are among the world’s most resilient—whether they live in Youngstown or Mariupol.  We can’t just admire the fortitude and spirit of the Ukrainian people—we need to have their backs and support one of the most important industries to Ukraine’s economic well-being.  For steel mills to continue as an economic lifeline for the people of Ukraine, they must be able to export their steel.  Today’s announcement is a signal to the Ukrainian people that we are committed to helping them thrive in the face of Putin’s aggression, and that their work will create a stronger Ukraine, both today and in the future.   

“I want to thank President Biden for his leadership in directing us to do all we can to support Ukraine’s people and their economy, as well as the Ukrainian leaders I have had a chance to work with over the past two months.  Ukraine’s diplomatic leaders have been essential partners and advocates for their people, and we will continue to do all we can to support their work toward peace, freedom, and prosperity.” Read More→

https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2022/05/raimondo-announces-temporary-suspension-232-tariffs-ukraine-steel

CSMS #51819834 - APHIS Veterinary Services Requires eFile System for all New and Renewal Permit Applications - Effective May 31, 2022

Effective May 31, 2022, APHIS Veterinary Services (VS) will require submission of all new and renewal permit applications for live animals and animal products, organisms, and vectors - via the APHIS eFile system.

New permit applicants can create an APHIS eFile account here. Additional information for setting up an account may be viewed under eFile training here.

The eFile VS Permitting Assistant (VSPA) determines movement requirements and prompts applicants to obtain the required documentation and/or apply for permits.　All applicants must use the VSPA to start the permit application. Additionally, applicants with existing VS 16-6 permits must renew them using the VSPA to select materials that match the existing permit.

For help with the application process, please see the written guidance and "How-To" videos under the "Veterinary Services" section - here.

As for amendments to existing permits, applicants must request those changes in the system the permits exist (i.e., ePermits or eFile). All permits in the ePermits system will remain valid until they expire.

For questions, please call 301-851-3300 or email apie@usda.gov (Animal Products, Organisms, and Vectors) or LAIPermits@usda.gov (Live Animals).

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-316b53a?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

Preliminary Determination in the Antidumping Duty Investigation of Oil Country Tubular Goods from Argentina, Mexico, and Russia

On May 5, 2022, the Department of Commerce (Commerce) announced its affirmative preliminary determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) investigations of oil country tubular goods from Argentina, Mexico, and Russia

USITC MAKES DETERMINATION IN FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEW CONCERNING SEAMLESS REFINED COPPER PIPE AND TUBE FROM CHINA AND MEXICO

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping duty orders on imports of seamless refined copper pipe and tube from China and Mexico would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time.  

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing antidumping duty orders on imports of these products from China and Mexico will remain in place.  

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative.  

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act.  See the attached page for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report Seamless Refined Copper Pipe and Tube from China and Mexico (Inv. Nos. 731-TA-1174-1175 (Second Review), USITC Publication 5323, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews. 

The report will be available by May 31, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: https://www.usitc.gov/commission_publications_library. 

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0428ll1922.htm

USITC INSTITUTES SECTION 337 INVESTIGATION OF CERTAIN CENTRIFUGE UTILITY PLATFORM AND FALLING FILM EVAPORATOR SYSTEMS AND COMPONENTS THEREOF

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain centrifuge utility platform and falling film evaporator systems and components thereof.  The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Apeks, LLC of Johnstown, OH on March 29, 2022, which was supplemented by letter on April 14, 2022.  The complaint, as supplemented, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain centrifuge utility platform and falling film evaporator systems and components thereof.  The complainant requests that the USITC issue a general exclusion order and cease and desist orders.  

The USITC has identified the following as the respondents this investigation:

Ambiopharm Inc. of Beech Island, SC; 
Calpha Industries Inc. of Laguna Hills, CA; 
Comerg, LLC of Phoenix, AZ; 
Ezhydro of Sacremento, CA; 
Henan Lanphan Industry Co., Ltd. of Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China; 
HX Labs, LLC of Albany, OR; 
Idea Makers, LLC of Salt Lake City, UT; 
Lab1st Scientific and Industrial Equipment, Inc. of Shanghai, China; 
Miracle Education Distributors, Inc. of Cathedral City, CA; 
Mountain Pure, LLC of Vineyard, UT; 
Redford Management of Los Angeles, CA; 
Ri Hemp Farms, LLC of West Greenwich, RI; 
Shanghai Yuanhuai Industries Co. Ltd. of Shanghai City, China; 
Toption Instrument Co., Ltd. of Shaanxi Province, China; and
Zhangjiagang Chunk Trading Corp. d/b/a Zhangjiagang Charme Trading Corp. Ltd. of Jiangsu Province, China.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1311), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case.  The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing.  The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time.  Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation.  USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

###

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0428ll1923.htm

USITC INSTITUTES SECTION 337 INVESTIGATION OF CERTAIN MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain mobile electronic devices.  The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Maxwell, Ltd. of Kyoto, Japan on March 30, 2022.  The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain mobile electronic devices.  The complainant requests that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders.  

The USITC has identified the following as the respondents this investigation:

Lenovo Group Ltd. of Beijing, China; 
Lenovo (United States) Inc. of Morrisville, NC; and 
Motorola Mobility LLC of Libertyville, IL. 

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1312), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case.  The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing.  The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time.  Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation.  USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0428ll1924.htm

WALK-BEHIND SNOW THROWERS FROM CHINA INJURE U.S. INDUSTRY, SAYS USITC

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that a U.S. industry is materially injured by reason of imports of walk-behind snow throwers from China that the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has determined are subsidized and sold in the United States at less than fair value.

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, Commerce will issue antidumping duty orders and countervailing duty orders on imports of this product from China.

The Commission’s public report Walk-Behind Snow Throwers from China (Inv. Nos. 701-TA-666 and 731-TA-1558 (Final), USITC Publication 5322, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the investigations.

The report will be available by May 26, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: http://pubapps.usitc.gov/applications/publogs/qry_publication_loglist.asp.

UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20436

FACTUAL HIGHLIGHTS

Walk-Behind Snow Throwers from China
Investigation Nos. 701-TA-666 and 731-TA-1558 (Final)

Product Description: 

Snow throwers are generally used to clear snow, primarily in residential and smaller commercial settings. They are intended for consumer household use but may also be used by professional landscapers and snow removal companies. Snow throwers (also referred to as “snow blowers”) are rotary-powered snow throwing machines that can be either self-propelled or non-self-propelled (pushed). Snow throwers as defined in Commerce’s scope are controlled by an operator walking behind the snow thrower, typically have a clearing width of 12 to 60 inches, and include finished and unfinished gas-powered snow throwers, which are generally considered more powerful and faster than electric or battery-powered snow throwers. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0422ll1920.htm

Decision to Initiate Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations of White Grape Juice Concentrate from Argentina

On April 21, 2022, the Department of Commerce (Commerce) announced the initiation of antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of white grape juice concentrate from Argentina.

 

Subsidy Programs Provided by Countries Exporting Softwood Lumber and Softwood Lumber Products to the United States; Request for Comment

AGENCY:

Enforcement and Compliance, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Commerce (Commerce) seeks public comment on any subsidies, including stumpage subsidies, provided by certain countries exporting softwood lumber or softwood lumber products to the United States during the period July 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021.

DATES:

Comments must be submitted within 30 days after publication of this notice.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Kristen Johnson, AD/CVD Operations, Enforcement and Compliance, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20230; telephone: (202) 482-4793.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Pursuant to section 805 of Title VIII of the Tariff Act of 1930 (the Softwood Lumber Act of 2008), the Secretary of Commerce is mandated to submit to the appropriate Congressional committees a report every 180 days on any subsidy provided by countries exporting softwood lumber or softwood lumber products to the United States, including stumpage subsidies. Commerce submitted its last subsidy report to the Congress on December 21, 2021. Read More→

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/04/20/2022-08434/subsidy-programs-provided-by-countries-exporting-softwood-lumber-and-softwood-lumber-products-to-the

ORGANIC SOYBEAN MEAL FROM INDIA INJURES U.S. INDUSTRY, SAYS USITC

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that a U.S. industry was materially injured by reason of imports of organic soybean meal from India that the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has determined is subsidized and sold in the United States at less than fair value.

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, Commerce will issue antidumping and countervailing duty orders on imports of this product from India.

The Commission’s public report Organic Soybean Meal from India (Inv. No. 701-TA-667 and 731-TA-1559 (Final), USITC Publication 5321, May 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the investigations.

The report will be available by May 25, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: http://pubapps.usitc.gov/applications/publogs/qry_publication_loglist.asp.

UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20436

FACTUAL HIGHLIGHTS

Organic Soybean Meal from India
Investigation Nos. 701-TA-667 and 731-TA-1559 (Final)

roduct Description:  The merchandise subject to these investigations is certified organic soybean Meal (OSBM). Certified organic soybean meal results from the mechanical pressing of certified organic soybeans into ground products known as soybean cake, soybean chips, or soybean flakes, with or without oil residues. Soybean cake is the product after the extraction of part of the oil from soybeans. Soybean chips and soybean flakes are produced by cracking, heating, and flaking soybeans and reducing the oil content of the conditioned product. Certified organic soybean meal is certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) or equivalently certified to NOP standards or NOP-equivalent standards under an existing organic equivalency or recognition agreement. Certified organic soybean meal covered by these investigations has a protein content of 34 percent or higher. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0418ll1918.htm

USITC MAKES DETERMINATION IN FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEW CONCERNING WELDED STAINLESS STEEL PRESSURE PIPE FROM INDIA

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping duty and countervailing duty orders on imports of welded stainless steel pressure pipe from India would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time.  

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing orders on imports of this product from India will remain in place.  

Chair Jason E. Kearns, Vice Chair Randolph J. Stayin, and Commissioners David S. Johanson, Rhonda K. Schmidtlein, and Amy A. Karpel voted in the affirmative.  

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act.  See the attached page for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report Welded Stainless Steel Pressure Pipe from India (Inv. Nos. 701-TA-548 and 731-TA-1298 (First Review), USITC Publication 5320, April 2022) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews.

The report will be available by May 6, 2022; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website at: https://www.usitc.gov/commission_publications_library. 

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time. Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2022/er0415ll1917.htm

Commerce Department Expands Restrictions on Exports to Russia and Belarus in Response to Ongoing Aggression in Ukraine

Today, the Department of Commerce, through the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), is issuing a final rule that expands its highly restrictive controls on the export and reexport of U.S.-origin and certain foreign-produced commodities, software, and technologies to Russia and Belarus, further choking off access to inputs and products needed to sustain their military capabilities.

As a result of the rule issued today, BIS has imposed highly restrictive license requirements on all categories of items on the Commerce Control List (CCL) to Russia and Belarus, which expands U.S. scrutiny of transactions to almost any sensitive dual-use technology, software, or commodities that could be used to support Russia’s war effort. Furthermore, by applying a policy of denial to applications involving these items, the U.S. is effectively cutting off Russia and Belarus from access to a range of items. These restrictions should continue to severely degrade Russia’s ability to sustain its aggression, as supported by Belarus.

“Last weekend’s horrific revelations are further evidence that Russia’s brutality must be met strongly by the international community. The Department of Commerce is using the authorities it has to respond to Putin’s depravity,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “Today’s action by BIS, in cooperation with our international allies and partners, shows that we will continue to apply pressure on Russia’s and Belarus’s strategic sectors to degrade their military capabilities.”

“It’s difficult to see the images and hear the reports from Bucha and not be deeply affected. Vladimir Putin’s campaign of destruction is appalling, and the United States and our allies and partners will continue applying severe pressure in multiple ways to bring an end to this carnage,” said Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves. “The Department of Commerce will continue to use the authorities it has to do its part in that international and interagency effort.”

“Vladimir Putin’s absolute disregard for the humanity of the people of Ukraine demonstrates why Russia’s military must be cut off from the high-tech commodities, software, and technologies that the U.S. and our allies and partners produce,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Thea D. Rozman Kendler. “Russia and Belarus have used their access to inputs and products not to purse peaceful prosperity but instead to commit atrocities. Today’s action will further isolate Russia and Belarus and stifle their military capacity.” Read More→

https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2022/04/commerce-department-expands-restrictions-exports-russia-and-belarus

Commerce Announces Addition of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland to Global Export Controls Coalition

Today, the U.S. Commerce Department, through the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), is issuing a rule that formally adds the nations of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland to the growing global coalition of nations that are cooperating in our stand against Russian aggression, and Belarusian complicity, through their implementation of similarly stringent export controls. Multilateral application of export controls is a force-multiplier in cutting Russia and Belarus off from the commodities, technologies, and software necessary to sustain their aggression, depriving their defense, aerospace, and maritime sectors of key materials.

“The more countries that agree to implement tough export controls, the less chance Vladimir Putin has to obtain the commodities, software, and technologies that he needs to sustain his brutal war machine,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “We welcome the commitment of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland to joining the U.S. and 33 other allies and partners in standing together against Putin’s aggression.”

“Today’s rule recognizes the strong partnership we have with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland in standing up for democracy and in solidarity with the people of Ukraine,” said Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves. “The effectiveness of export controls is enhanced greatly when we are joined by committed international allies and partners. The more our coalition grows, the fewer places Putin and the Kremlin can turn for aid.”

“The growing coalition of committed allies and partners standing with Ukraine demonstrates that Putin badly miscalculated if he thought the international community would turn a blind eye to his brutal aggression,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Thea D. Rozman Kendler. “Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are committed to strong export controls in response to Russia’s senseless war, and they are key partners in our international response. The controls these countries have implemented further technologically isolate Russia and its supporter Belarus.”

Under a rule issued and implemented today by BIS, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are added to the list of countries that are excluded from certain license requirements of the U.S. Russia/Belarus Sanctions rules, including the foreign direct product (FDP) rules for Russia/Belarus and Russian/Belarusian Military End Users (MEUs). Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland join Australia, Canada, the 27 member states of the European Union (EU), Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, bringing the total number of countries excluded from application of the FDP rules to 37. Read More→

https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2022/04/commerce-announces-addition-iceland-liechtenstein-norway-and

APHIS amends entry requirements for importation of potato (Solanum tuberosum) from Prince Edward Island, Canada to prevent introduction of potato wart pathogen Synchytrium endobioticum

To: State and Territory Agricultural Regulatory Officials

Effective immediately, the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is amending its requirements for the importation of potato (Solanum tuberosum) from Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada to prevent the introduction of potato wart (causal agent Synchytrium endobioticum) into the United States.

Synchytrium endobioticum (S. endobioticum) is regulated by APHIS as a Select Agent. Potato wart is known to affect only the domestic potato (Solanum tuberosum) and two wild potato species (Solanum spp.). The fungus overwinters in the soil as spores and may remain viable for 40 years or more in the absence of a host plant. The spores can survive a wide range of environmental conditions, including conditions in storage and transport. A low level of resting spores in tubers or soil is sufficient for the spread of the pathogen. The movement of infected potato tubers and contaminated soil are documented as important pathways for the introduction of S. endobioticum to new areas. There are no treatments available to control potato wart.

Prior to the issuance of Federal Order DA-2022-14, APHIS regulated the importation of potatoes from Canada according to the requirements of Federal Order DA-2015-01 issued on January 26, 2015. That order allowed the importation of table stock, bulk, unwashed, and seed potatoes from PEI with a phytosanitary certificate and under specified conditions.  

Potato wart was first reported in a processing potato field in PEI in 2000.   Since the initial detection 21 years ago, S. endobioticum had been detected in PEI in a total of 34 fields. In 2021, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reported two new potato wart infestations, which resulted in Canada’s issuance of a Ministerial Order that suspended the certification of potato exports from PEI to the United States. Canada has requested that APHIS allow the resumption of potato imports under new conditions given the latest detections, and subsequent confirmatory analysis in February 2022.

To prevent the introduction of S. endobioticum into the United States, APHIS is replacing Federal Order DA-2015-01 with Federal Order DA-2022-14.  The Federal Order DA-2022-14 prohibits the importation of field-grown seed potatoes from PEI into the United States and allows the importation of potatoes for consumption that meet the specified conditions, as well as all other applicable USDA regulations.

For additional information regarding this Federal Order, please contact Senior Regulatory Policy Specialist Narasimha Chary Samboju at 301-851-2038 or narasimha.c.samboju@usda.gov.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/stakeholder-info/stakeholder-messages/plant-health-news/potatos-pei-entry-requirements