Limit on Quartz-Surface Imports Moving Again

WASHINGTON – The “Safeguard” action to limit imports of quartz surfaces is back on track, and with more U.S. manufacturer support.

The request, seeking a possible 50% tariff and country-by-country quota system, will have a public hearing here on Feb. 24 before the U.S. International Trade Commission as part of a process that could include President Donald Trump in mid-May.

The Quartz Manufacturing Alliance of America (QMAA), an industry group including most U.S. producers, brought the request to the USITC earlier this year. However, the federal-government shutdown this fall caused a delay in the procedure.

Following the hearing, the USITC needs to determine whether foreign quartz-surface imports now cause a “serious harm” to domestic manufacturers. If the USITC, a second hearing on remedies (including any combination of tariffs, quotas or other trade adjustments) will be held April 14.

The USITC would then offer recommendations to the president, who would make the final decision by May 18. The president can use the USITC proposals for remedies or create his own combination of actions; in any case, those terms can be imposed for up to four years, with a possible four-year extension.

The USITC’s scheduling of the process comes as the QMAA announces more companies joining the group. In addition to the original members of Cambria, Daltile/Mohawk Industries, Guidoni USA and distributor Architectural Surfaces, the roster now includes LX Hausys, E-Stone Surfaces, Hendrix Industries, and Hyundai L&C USA.

The QMAA now includes most operating U.S. quartz-surface producers, with the exception of Elite Quartz Manufacturing LLC (a joint venture of Spectrum Quartz and MSI) and American Quartz Group Inc.

“The growth of our membership reflects a shared commitment, from a broad coalition, to fair competition and American jobs,” said Luke Meisner, a partner with the Washington-based Schagrin Associates law firm representing QMAA.