U.S. Commerce Department Extends Auto Import Comment Deadline
The U.S. Commerce Department announced in a Federal Register notice published Thursday that it was extending deadlines for its section 232 national security investigation into automobiles (including cars, SUVs, vans and light trucks) and automotive parts. Key dates are as follows:
- June 29: Written comments due and request to participate in hearing due
- July 13: Rebuttal comments due
- July 19 to July 20: Public hearing in Washington, D.C.
To submit comments, interested parties should enter docket number DOC-2018-0002 on www.regulations.gov. The Commerce Department has said it is specifically interested in comments and information on a number of key areas, including imports, production, impact of foreign competition, and other factors. Note that business confidential material will be exempted from public disclosure. Additional information on how to submit business confidential information and on to request to testify are also included.
TD Bank has estimated that, if the United States moves forward with auto tariffs, it could cost the Canadian economy 160,000 jobs.