US trade regulators get new tools to block cheap imports

The US Commerce Department has updated its rules for investigating whether foreign goods are sold too cheaply or unfairly subsidized. This means the government can now more easily impose extra taxes on imported products it deems unfair.

For years, companies trying to compete with cheap imports have complained that trade rules were too slow or hard to enforce. These changes give the Commerce Department more ways to investigate and penalize foreign companies. This could make it harder for some foreign goods to enter the US market, potentially raising prices for consumers but protecting domestic industries.