October 11, 2012

Manchin Applauds Decision to Fight Unfair Trade From China, Protect Good West Virginia Jobs

After letter from Manchin, International Trade Commission decides to continue anti-dumping order on silicomanganese from China and Ukraine

Manchin’s letter cited devastating effect on West Virginia manufacturing businesses, especially Felman Productions of Letart

Charleston, W.Va. – After U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) urged the International Trade Commission to continue to enforce an anti-dumping order against China and other countries, the organization announced today that it would keep these important policies in place.  

In a Sept. 5 letter, Senator Manchin described the devastating effect in West Virginia – especially on Felman Productions, the largest manufacturing employer in Mason County – if the order had been lifted. Silicomanganese is used in the production of steel.

“I am so pleased with this decision today, and I vow to continue to fight for every single good job that we have in our great state and in this country,” Senator Manchin said. 

In his letter, he wrote: “As our country recovers from the 2008-2009 recession, a surge of unfairly low-priced silicomanganese imports from Brazil, China and Ukraine will be very problematic for my state’s economy. Considering the challenges that the current economic conditions present to companies like Felman Productions and their employees, permitting these foreign producers to resume dumping their silicomanganese at low prices will only further aggravate our economic environment. The continuation of these orders will help defend Felman Productions and other domestic silicomanganese manufacturers against unfair trade. Hundreds of well-paying jobs will also remain secure, contributing to more robust growth in West Virginia.” 

A copy of Senator Manchin’s letter is attached. 

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