Commerce Initiates 232 Investigation of Auto Imports

On May 23, 2018, Commerce Secretary Ross initiated an investigation into whether imports into the United States of automobiles and auto parts threaten to impair the national security. A link to the press release announcing the initiation of the investigation is available here.

As it did during its recent 232 investigations concerning U.S. imports of steel and aluminum, the Commerce Department is seeking participation from the public in the form of written comments and public testimony. The following are the key dates for interested parties who would like to participate in the investigation:

• June 22, 2018 – Deadline to submit affirmative comments, request to appear at the public hearing, and submit a summary of expected testimony
• July 6, 2018 – Deadline to submit rebuttal comments
• July 19-20, 2018 – Public hearings held at 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET

For additional information concerning the specific issues for which the Commerce Department is seeking comments and information as well as the process for submitting such comments and information interested parties should consult the agency’s May 30, 2018 Federal Register notice.