Two prominent U.S. silicon metal producers have initiated legal proceedings to challenge what they characterize as unfair international trade practices in the silicon metal industry. Ferroglobe USA, Inc. and Mississippi Silicon LLC have filed comprehensive petitions with the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. International Trade Commission targeting imports from Angola, Australia, Laos, Norway, and Thailand.
The petitions allege that foreign producers are selling silicon metal at substantially below fair market value, with claimed dumping margins reaching up to 337.84%. Silicon metal, a critical raw material used in national security-related manufacturing, plays a pivotal role in producing aluminum, silicones, polysilicon, and components for semiconductor, solar, and electronics industries.
According to company leadership, these import practices are causing significant damage to domestic manufacturing. Marco Levi, Ferroglobe PLC's CEO, emphasized that dumped and subsidized imports have undermined U.S. industry volumes and pricing structures. Eddie Boardwine of Mississippi Silicon stressed that while American producers can compete globally, the current import scenario represents an uneven playing field.
The legal challenge covers silicon metal containing at least 85.00 percent but less than 99.99 percent silicon, with less than 4.00 percent iron by weight. The petitions seek relief through special import duties to protect domestic production capabilities and preserve American manufacturing jobs.
Anticipated next steps include Commerce initiating antidumping and countervailing duty investigations by May 14, 2025, with a preliminary International Trade Commission determination expected by June 9, 2025. These proceedings could potentially reshape the competitive landscape for silicon metal production and importation in the United States.
The case highlights broader tensions in global trade, particularly in advanced manufacturing sectors where technological sophistication and economic competitiveness intersect. By challenging what they view as unfair trade practices, these U.S. producers are seeking to protect domestic industrial capabilities and ensure a level economic playing field.
