Pennsylvania Court Blocks Mexican Steel Conduit From Public Projects
Key Highlights
- What the ruling means for conduit sourcing on future Pennsylvania public projects
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How discriminatory trade practices impact contractors, pricing, and supply chains
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Why the court’s decision matters for long-term domestic steel manufacturing stability
CHICAGO, IL — Zekelman Industries, North America’s largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer, announced a major legal victory after the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court ruled in favor of Wheatland Tube in its case against the Republic of Mexico. The court found that Mexico discriminates against steel products manufactured in Pennsylvania, making it unlawful for public agencies or contractors to purchase or use Mexican-made steel conduit on public works projects.
The ruling stems from Wheatland Tube’s petition under the Public Works Procurement Equalizing Trade Practices Law. After a hearing in December 2024, the court affirmed that Mexico’s trade practices unfairly disadvantage Pennsylvania manufacturers.
Court’s Decision Limits Use of Mexican Conduit
The court added Mexico to the state’s Foreign Registry Docket for discriminatory practices. As a result, public agencies and state contractors are now prohibited from specifying or installing steel conduit manufactured in Mexico on Pennsylvania public projects.
Ruling Strengthens Domestic Manufacturing Protections
The decision helps safeguard Pennsylvania’s steel industry by preventing unfairly priced conduit from entering publicly funded work. For contractors, the ruling clarifies sourcing requirements and reinforces the role of domestic steel in infrastructure and public construction.
Zekelman Industries Reaffirms Commitment to Fair Trade
Barry Zekelman, Executive Chairman and CEO of Zekelman Industries, stated:
“This ruling is a monumental step forward for the American steel industry and for fair trade practices. It underscores the importance of protecting domestic manufacturers and ensuring that public works projects support local jobs and businesses. We are grateful for the court’s thoughtful consideration of this case and for standing up against unfair trade practices that harm Pennsylvania’s economy.”
Wheatland Tube initially filed the lawsuit in 2024, citing Mexico’s breach of trade agreements and its practice of dumping low-cost steel products into the U.S. market. The ruling reinforces Zekelman’s continued efforts to advocate for domestic manufacturing and ensure compliance as the legal process moves forward.
For more information, visit www.zekelman.com.
Note: this release was rewritten with help from generative AI.