Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2018-03-09

The economics ministry said Friday that it hopes to hold talks with the United States on its new tariffs on steel and aluminum products.

The US president, Donald Trump, has announced a 25% tariff on steel imports and a 10% tariff on aluminum imports. The new tax, by which Trump seeks to protect domestic industry, has drawn criticism from many trading partners.

The economics ministry said the United States accounted for 13.16% of Taiwan’s steel exports and 23% of its aluminum exports in 2017. This makes the US Taiwan’s largest steel export market and sixth-largest aluminum export market.

The ministry said it hopes to exchange views with the US on the latest tariff and find ways to protect Taiwan’s interests.    [FULL  STORY]