Background of the anti-dumping investigation

Mexico imposed anti-dumping duties on coated flat steel imports from Vietnam in 2023 following complaints by domestic steelmakers such as Ternium and Tenigal. These duties were aimed at countering the influx of low-priced galvanized steel, which local producers claim unfairly disrupts the Mexican market by undercutting prices. The products affected include flat carbon and alloy steel sheets with metallic or non-metallic coatings, technically referred to as galvanized steel sheets.

Scope of Products Under Review

The review covers a broad range of coated steel products classified under specific HS codes including 7210.30.02, 7210.41.01, 7210.41.99, among others. These categories include flat steel sheets that are resistant to corrosion, widely used in construction, automotive, appliances, and other manufacturing sectors. The precise classification ensures the review focuses exclusively on imports that directly compete with Mexican-made steel products.

Duration & Timing of Investigation

The Secretariat of Economy has set the period of investigation from November 2023 through October 2024. This timeframe allows officials to analyze recent trade flows, pricing patterns, and the market share of Vietnamese steel during a full 12-month cycle. The review is crucial in determining whether the existing anti-dumping duties remain justified based on updated data and market conditions.

Current Anti-Dumping Duty Rates     

Since their imposition, the anti-dumping duties vary by Vietnamese exporting companies. Nam Kim faces a duty of 6.40%, Hoa Sen at 7.00%, and Pomina at 8.29%. More substantial duties apply to Hoa Phat and Ton Dong A, at 10.32% and 10.84%, respectively. Imports from other Vietnamese exporters are also subject to a 10.84% duty. These differentiated rates reflect findings on the extent of dumping by each company during the initial investigation.

Next Steps in the Review Process

During the review, current anti-dumping duties will remain in effect, ensuring continued protection against potential market disruption. The Secretariat of Economy will analyze submissions from both Mexican producers and Vietnamese exporters before reaching a final decision. The outcome will influence Mexico’s steel import policy and the competitive dynamics in the galvanized steel sector for the coming year.

Key Takeaways:

• Mexico is reviewing anti-dumping duties imposed on Vietnamese coated flat steel imports, covering corrosion-resistant galvanized steel sheets.

• Duty rates vary by Vietnamese exporter, ranging from 6.40% to 10.84%, with current measures remaining active during the review.

• The review aims to balance protection of Mexican steel producers with fair trade practices and will affect bilateral trade and domestic market stability.