U.S. Says Taiwan Dumping Martial Arts Uniforms

The Commerce Department said it has made a preliminary determination that martial arts uniforms from Taiwan are being sold in the United States at less than fair value.

As a result of the finding, cash deposits or bonds to offset the price advantage will be imposed on the imported uniforms, which include tops, pants and belts.

If the preliminary finding is upheld and the U.S. International Trade Commission determines that the lower-priced imports harm U.S. manufacturers, the Customs Service will be instructed to collect the final anti-dumping duties.

The investigation began last November, when Century Martial Art Supply Inc. filed a petition on behalf of the U.S. industry. Imports of martial arts uniforms from Taiwan totaled $1.2 million in 1988.