On September 27, 2023, the Mexican Ministry of Economy issued an official announcement in the official gazette regarding a preliminary anti-dumping ruling on steel grinding balls, regardless of their import source, originating from China (in Spanish: bolas de acero para molienda). The preliminary ruling determined that the products in question were subject to dumping and that this dumping posed a threat of harm to the domestic industry in Mexico. As a result, the Ministry will continue its anti-dumping investigation, but temporary anti-dumping taxes will not be imposed at this stage.
The products in question are manufactured using a hot forming process and are primarily used in the mining industry. They fall within the diameter range of 1 inch (25.4 millimeters) to 3.5 inches, as well as between 4 inches and 6.25 inches (158.75 millimeters). These carbon steel grinding balls may contain alloy components and are classified under the TIGIE tax code 7326.11.03. However, it's important to note that stainless steel, high-chromium, and cast steel grinding balls are not included in this ruling. The announcement will take effect the day after its publication.