08:34, 03-Mar-2018
US Trade Tariffs: Strong backlash against US steep tariff measures
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US President Donald Trump's announcement of hefty tariffs on steel and aluminum is drawing strong criticism from around the world, including allies like Australia, Japan and the EU.
STEVEN CIOBO AUSTRALIAN MINISTER FOR TRADE, TOURISM AND INVESTMENT "This announcement is disappointing. The imposition of a tariff like this will do nothing other than distort trade and ultimately we believe will lead to a loss of jobs."
ALEXANDER WINTERSTEIN DEPUTY CHIEF SPOKESMAN, EUROPEAN COMMISSION "We strongly regret this step, which appears to represent a blatant intervention to protect US domestic industry and not to be based on any national security justification."
KOSEI SHINDO, PRESIDENT NIPPON STEEL & SUMITOMO METAL CORP "It is deeply regrettable that President Donald Trump announced his plans."
Russia also expressed concern over the US tariff controversy, saying they are analysing the emerging situation in trade relations. Friday has seen jitters across global stock markets amid fears escalating a trade war. The US is expected to lay out details of the duties next week.