Steel probe gets thumbs up from US

American steel workers are throwing their support behind New Zealand’s industry.

China is angry at New Zealand inquiries into a glut of Chinese steel imports flooding the market. It believes New Zealand is part of a United States-led alliance to target Chinese national interests.

China has threatened ’’retaliatory measures’’ against New Zealand trade, warning it will slow the flow of dairy, wool and kiwifruit imports.

China produces about half the world’s supply of steel.

Ben Davis, of United Steelworkers, the US union representing workers, said he had been in touch with E Tu, the union representing the industry in this country.

He said while the US had been able to fight back with legal measures to introduce duties and tariffs, other countries’ industries were more exposed to Chinese influence and needed support.

‘‘We are working with steel workers’ unions around the world to partner with major producing companies to support their work to strengthen anti-dumping laws.’’

Pacific Steel, the sister company of iron miner and processor NZ Steel, has lodged a confidential application, under local and World Trade Organisation rules, for an investigation into China dumping cut-price steel on the New Zealand market.

The local industry is struggling to compete with the glut of sometimes substandard Chinese metal, which is being used in major projects such as the $1.4 billion Waterview Connection and bridges on the Waikato Expressway.

Davis said Pacific Steel’s move was courageous. ‘‘It’s an inspiration to other countries. We are trying to do everything we can to support steel workers in New Zealand. From everything I understand it’s a great country to live in with a high standard of living.’’