China tire imports are coming into the U.S. in such increased quantities or under such conditions as to cause or threaten to cause market disruption to domestic tire makers, federal investigators determined today.

In a 4-2 vote the U.S. International Trade Commission made its announcement and will begin considering a remedy proposal that it will send along with a report to President Barack Obama by July 9, who will then decide what if any remedy should be levied.

“We anticipate the remedies that will be delivered to President Obama will allow the time necessary to rebuild the U.S. tire industry,” said Leo W. Gerard, President of the USW International in a released statement.

The United Steelworkers union filed a petition in April with the commission, asking the Obama administration to limit tire imports from China.

The union wants tire imports to be cut by more than half to 21 million annually. The U.S. imported 46 million tires to the U.S. in 2008. The petition specifically targeted tires used on cars and light trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles.

The U.S. International Trade Commission, which is based in Washington D.C., held public hearings on the matter in May. The deadline for the public to submit final comments on remedy will by June 24.

Chairman Shara L. Aranoff and Commissioners Charlotte R. Lane, Irving A. Williamson, and Dean A. Pinkert voted in the affirmative. Vice Chairman Daniel R. Pearson and Commissioner Deanna Tanner Okun voted in the negative.

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