US Ferro-Silicon Case Sparks Multiple Appeals

Ferro-Silicon

Domestic Producers and Malaysian Exporters Contest Trade Rulings

US ferro-silicon producers have formally appealed the US Commerce Department’s final determinations on imports from Malaysia, launching proceedings with the US Court of International Trade (USCIT). Attorneys for Ferroglobe’s US unit and CC Metals & Alloys filed a summons on 20 June, following Commerce’s March ruling that Malaysian ferro-silicon was sold at less-than-fair value. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) upheld the decision in May, supporting anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) measures.

At the same time, Commerce and the USITC ruled that “critical circumstances” did not apply, meaning Malaysian shipments during the investigation were exempt from retroactive duties. Producers have 30 days from filing to detail grievances, potentially targeting either the duty rates or the negative finding on critical circumstances.

Malaysian Producers Challenge CVD Rates

Meanwhile, Malaysian producer OM Materials has also appealed, contesting the CVD rate set by Commerce. OM’s final AD and deposit rates were adjusted to 5.10pc and 4.66pc, with a CVD rate of 2.78pc. Pertama Ferroalloys, another Malaysian producer, faced significantly higher penalties of 42.88pc for AD and 42.60pc for deposits, along with a 3.48pc CVD rate.

From May-August 2024, Malaysia supplied 11,532 metric tonnes of ferro-silicon, about 17pc of total US imports. Since then, shipments from Malaysia have stopped, according to Commerce data through April.

The Metalnomist Commentary

These appeals highlight the growing tension in ferro-silicon trade, where both US producers and Malaysian exporters are contesting outcomes. While domestic firms seek stronger protection, exporters aim to reduce penalties. The USCIT’s eventual rulings could shape future ferroalloy trade flows and influence supply stability in the US market.