Japan's government is investigating graphite electrode imports from China over possible violations of rules against selling at unfairly low prices, also known as dumping.
The electrodes are used in electric arc furnaces that melt scraps to make steel.
Three Japanese makers of the components in February began the process for seeking anti-dumping duties on Chinese graphite electrodes, saying they are imported at unreasonably low prices.
The government held hearings and found that such dumping might damage Japanese businesses.
The investigation is expected to end within a year and to be followed by a decision whether to apply the duty.
The industry group says China is the largest exporter of graphite electrodes to Japan with a market share of about 20 percent.