Initiation of Dumping Investigation: Lead Acid Batteries From the People's Republic of China Notice is hereby given that, acting pursuant to section 10 (1) of the Dumping and Countervailing Duties Act 1988, and under delegated authority from the Secretary of Commerce, I have initiated an investigation to determine both the existence and effect of the alleged dumping of the goods described in the Schedule to this notice, originating from the People's Republic of China, being satisfied that sufficient evidence has been provided that: (a) The goods imported or intended to be imported into New Zealand are being dumped; and (b) By reason thereof material injury to an industry is being caused, and also being satisfied that the collective output of those New Zealand producers who have, in writing, expressed support for the application constitutes: (a) 25% or more of total New Zealand production of like goods produced for domestic consumption (assessed during the most recent representative period, being not less than 6 months); and (b) More than 50% of the total production of like goods produced for domestic consumption (as so assessed) by those New Zealand producers who have, in writing, expressed support for or opposition to the application. Schedule Description of Goods Lead acid batteries for replacement market passenger motor vehicles, excluding DIN batteries, deep cycle marine batteries and commercial batteries. Note: Commercial batteries include the N70 range and ranges above this specification. The goods are currently classified under Tariff Item 8507.10.09 and Statistical Keys 12j, 15c and 19f of the Tariff of New Zealand, which classification is provided for convenience and Customs purposes only, the written description being dispositive. Dated at Wellington this 25th day of February 1999. G. B. CULLEN, Senior Investigator, Trade Remedies Group. Invitation for Submissions A copy of the non-confidential version of the Initiation Report, which contains details of the consideration of the application for an investigation is available from the Manager, Trade Remedies Group, Ministry of Commerce, P.O. Box 1473, Wellington. Interested parties are invited to make submissions to Trade Remedies Group on the alleged dumping and injury.