The Associated General Contractors of America adopted a resolution at its annual convention in March seeking “equitable adjustment of fixed-price contracts to compensate contractors for the unprecedented rise in steel prices. AGC was prompted by especially severe increases and delivery delays in steel products that had forced contractors to postpone work on highways and bridges.

The group also reported delays in getting pipe for fire sprinklers and other products. “We don't know how high the prices will go or how long the shortages will last, but it is apparent that some contractors will not be able to absorb these unbudgeted cost increases or payment delays,” warned Ken Simonson, AGC's chief economist.

ITC To Continue Foreign Pipe Investigation

The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) determined on April 16 that there is a reasonable indication a U.S. industry is materially injured by reason of imports of certain circular welded carbon quality line pipe from China, Korea, and Mexico that are allegedly sold in the United States at less than fair value.

All six Commissioners voted in the affirmative.

As a result, the U.S. Department of Commerce will continue to conduct its antidumping investigations of imports of certain circular welded carbon quality line pipe from China, Korea, and Mexico, with its preliminary antidumping determinations due on or about August 10, 2004.

The Commission's public report Certain Circular Welded Carbon Quality Line Pipe from China, Korea, and Mexico (Investigation Nos. 731-TA-1073-1075 (Preliminary), USITC Publication 3687, April 2004) will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the investigations.

Copies of the report are expected to be available after May 17, 2004, by calling 202-205-1809 or from the Office of the Secretary, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436. Requests may also be faxed to 202-205-2104.