New tariff charged by the USA threatens Electrolux

Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua.- The United States yesterday ordered to charge final antidumping duties on imports of certain type of refrigerators imported from South Korea and Mexico –including those manufactured by Electrolux in Ciudad Juarez– on which a 22.9% tariff will be charged. Electrolux has one of the largest industrial complexes in Ciudad Juarez, where they manufacture refrigerators and washing machines, mainly for the US market. The refrigerators plant located here has 1.8 million square feet and is located over a 136 hectares plot of land in the city’s south, according to information provided by the company. Construction of the factory located in Juarez started in August 2004 and production started early in June 2005; they currently employ around 3,000 people. Until yesterday, Electrolux’s spokespersons had not replied to e-mails regarding the consequences this new tariff may have on production in Mexico or if it damages operations competitiveness here.