Safeguards and Security The Trump administration specifically asserted the “national security” rationale in applying duties to imported steel and aluminum because of its exception under WTO rules. However, China and now the EU as well as others are challenging that characterization. The U.S. has conceded to consultations on the matter at the WTO, but it is with the caveat that they are without prejudice to their basis. Notably, it is reported that the EU is also negotiating with the U.S. on a separate trade agreement approach for avoiding the duties. In truth, the national security claim is a bit thin, but contrary to the assertion of U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas), countries like China do not open their market based on...

TAGS – China, Europe, North America