BNamericas reported that Colombia's steel association Fedemetal has called on the government to speed up the implementation of defense mechanisms provided by the World Trade Organization, such as antidumping measures and safeguards against Chinese imports, and an anti subsidy policy for the sector.

Mr Juan Manuel Lesmes head of Fedemetal told BNamericas that "It's no secret that it's very difficult to implement these measures in Colombia. China is practicing dumping in almost all steel products. We have to join forces against China, not with protectionist policies, but rather with policies that ensure fair competition."

Mr Jorge Alberto Sierra chairman of local steelmaker TerniumFerrasa told BNamericas that an antidumping suit requires a considerable amount of money and resources. He said that "That's why one of the main things we are asking of the government is that it analyze the issue and see how to make the process simpler."

In recent years, China's steel production has become a serious concern for all of the countries in Latin America because of its size and capacity, as well as the subsidies the government gives to exports.

Fedemetal is part of Colombian industry association ANDI.

(Sourced from www.bnamericas.com)