U.S. Silicon Metal Producers Challenge Foreign Import Practices in International Trade Complaint

Two leading U.S. silicon metal producers have initiated a comprehensive legal challenge against international manufacturers from five countries, alleging systematic unfair trade practices that are undermining domestic industrial capabilities. Ferroglobe USA, Inc. and Mississippi Silicon LLC have filed simultaneous petitions with the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. International Trade Commission targeting silicon metal imports from Angola, Australia, Laos, Norway, and Thailand.

The petitions allege these foreign manufacturers are selling silicon metal at prices substantially below fair market value, with claimed dumping margins reaching up to 337.84%. Silicon metal, a critical raw material used in numerous high-technology and national security applications, is essential for producing aluminum, silicones, polysilicon, and semiconductor components.

Marco Levi, CEO of Ferroglobe PLC, emphasized the significant economic impact, stating that dumped and subsidized imports have directly undermined domestic production volumes and pricing structures. The complaint covers silicon metal containing between 85.00 and 99.99 percent silicon, with less than 4.00 percent iron content.

Eddie Boardwine, Chief Executive of Mississippi Silicon, highlighted the importance of fair trade regulations, asserting that American manufacturers can compete globally when trading occurs under equitable conditions. The legal action seeks to protect domestic manufacturing jobs and ensure a level competitive landscape.

The trade investigation process will officially commence with the Department of Commerce's initial review by May 14, 2025, with a preliminary determination expected from the International Trade Commission by June 9, 2025. If successful, the petitions could result in special import duties designed to counteract the alleged unfair pricing strategies.

This legal challenge underscores the ongoing tensions in global trade, particularly in strategic manufacturing sectors critical to technological innovation and national economic interests. The outcome could potentially reshape international silicon metal market dynamics and provide significant protection for U.S. manufacturing infrastructure.