Chattanooga battery materials maker Novonix is calling a new ruling that China is unfairly exporting synthetic graphite to the U.S. a key decision to stop “predatory pricing” that could lead to tariffs.
If the International Trade Commission’s preliminary finding proves conclusive, tariffs equal to the extent of the unfair pricing by the Chinese could be levied, according to the company.
Robert Long, interim chief executive for the company that has one plant in Chattanooga and plans for a future $1 billion factory in the city, said the ruling is an important step toward leveling the playing field for U.S. critical minerals producers and bringing transparency to the global marketplace.
(READ MORE: Novonix eyes $1 billion plant in Chattanooga)
“China’s strategic efforts to control the global critical minerals supply chain, fueled by massive government subsidies with the clear intent of suppressing fair competition, are a threat to U.S. energy and national security,” he said in a statement after the ruling.