“In order for steel plants to continue as an economic lifeline for the people of Ukraine, they must be able to export their steel. “Today’s announcement is a signal to the Ukrainian people that we are determined to help them thrive in the face of Putin’s aggression and that their work will create a stronger Ukraine, both today and in the future,” said US Commerce Secretary Gina. Raimondo in a written statement.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Schmihal has asked the United States to repeal the tariffs during its White House meetings in April, and some members of Congress have also urged the administration to repeal U.S. tariffs on Ukrainian steel. This move seems mostly symbolic. While Ukraine is a major world exporter of steel, the United States imported only 130,649 metric tons of steel in 2021, according to the International Trade Administration. The Commerce Department’s decision comes a day after the United States unveiled another round of criminal sanctions and export controls against Russia for its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and G7 leaders held a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky. As early as 2018, the Trump administration imposed 25% tariffs on steel and 10% tariffs on aluminum in an attempt to support these industries, although this move was also condemned by US steel and aluminum producers at the time, saying that it will cost jobs and increase consumer prices. Since President Joe Biden took office last year, his administration has methodically abolished some tariffs imposed by the Trump administration as it seeks to strengthen U.S. ties with its allies. Over the past year, the United States has reached negotiated agreements with both Japan and the European Union to reduce steel tariffs.
Add Comment