Two major U.S. silicon metal producers, Ferroglobe USA, Inc. and Mississippi Silicon LLC, have filed comprehensive trade petitions challenging imported silicon metal from Angola, Australia, Laos, Norway, and Thailand, alleging unfair trade practices that are harming domestic manufacturing.
The petitions submitted to the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. International Trade Commission detail allegations of dumping and subsidization, with claimed dumping margins reaching up to 337.84%. Silicon metal, a critical raw material used in national security-related products like aluminum, silicones, and polysilicon, is essential for semiconductor, solar, and electronics industries.
Ferroglobe and Mississippi Silicon argue that these imports are undercutting U.S. industry, causing lower production volumes and pricing pressures. The legal action seeks special import duties to protect domestic manufacturers and restore fair market competition.
The targeted imports cover silicon metal containing between 85.00% and 99.99% silicon, with less than 4.00% iron content. Investigative proceedings are expected to commence by May 14, 2025, with a preliminary determination anticipated by June 9, 2025.
This trade dispute highlights the ongoing challenges facing U.S. manufacturing sectors in maintaining global competitiveness and protecting domestic industrial capabilities against potentially subsidized international competitors.
