American steelmakers have brought anti-dumping suits against many countries, which have since cut steel exports to the United States.

New regulations and anti-dumping suits have undermined the effects of lower tariffs, a report says.

An anti-dumping suit against China in 1988 resulted in a finding that imports were being sold below cost but failed to prove that domestic manufacturers had been harmed.

Two of the industry's biggest customers, G.M. and Caterpillar Inc., have issued statements opposing the anti-dumping suits.

These include the European Community's anti-dumping suits against Japanese-made copiers and computer printers and its extra-high 14 percent tariff on semiconductors.

A Mexican official, who refused to be quoted by name, said that the anti-dumping suit and new inspections were allowed under the trade pact and were fully justified.

Europe could also use American support as we seek to stem the progressive abuse of anti-dumping suits by tightening W.T.O. rules.

Individually, they are much more vulnerable to American threats, from anti-dumping suits to antitrust suits.

Another factor behind the company's decision could be fear that another anti-dumping suit might be filed against it in the United States.

He is a master at lobbying Brussels to raise tariffs, bring anti-dumping suits or otherwise keep Japanese products at bay.