Australian probe claims aluminium dumping by China

Reuters reported that Australian customs authorities has launched an investigation into whether China is dumping aluminium products at unfair prices in the Australian market, the latest in a series of complaints by China's trading partners. A source close to the investigation said that China was stepping up imports to Australia after being found in violation of dumping laws in Canada. Canada slapped China with dumping and subsidizing tariffs after finding in March that extrusions from China injured domestic producers. Mr Yao Jian spokesman for China's Ministry of Commerce expressed regret over Australia's three anti dumping and anti subsidy investigations into Chinese products over the last year, in a statement posted on the ministry's website. He said that "We hope that Australia uses caution, strictly applies WTO rules and investigates this case in a fair, just and transparent manner. If Australia in any way violates WTO rules, China reserves its rights to resort to WTO dispute resolution." Australia's investigation followed a complaint by local extruded products maker Capral Ltd that Chinese imports were subsidized by Beijing and damage the Australian market. Australian Customs issued a notice detailing the investigation, saying it is alleged that China dumped aluminium extrusions in Australia from July 1st 2008 to June 30th 2009. Products that are extruded are largely made of aluminium and used in construction materials, such as window frames and siding. (Sourced from www.reuters.com)