In a statement by the Taiwan Trade Negotiation Office, it was emphasized that Canada’s June imposition of a 50 percent additional duty on specific steel imports and a 25 percent global tariff on some processed steel products isnt consistent with WTO rules. The official submission was sent to WTO member countries on Thursday.
According to reports, Taiwan requested on Monday that Canada enter consultations under the WTO dispute settlement mechanism. Taiwanese authorities emphasized that the measures have caused serious harm to the country’s steel industry and negatively affected the sector.
The Trade Bureau noted that the steel sector plays a critical role for Taiwan in both defense and export revenues. It stated that Canada’s tariffs could result in an annual loss of approximately TWD 1.7 billion (around USD 54 million) for the Taiwanese steel industry. In addition, if exports of processed steel products such as screws and nuts remain at current levels, Taiwanese firms could face additional tariffs exceeding TWD 1.3 billion.
Taiwanese officials also stated that Canada, Mexico, and the European Union have previously implemented protective measures to limit low-priced steel from China entering their markets. However, these policies have negatively impacted Taiwan’s steel exports as well. Taiwan had previously raised objections with Canada through bilateral and multilateral platforms, but after failing to reach a resolution, it brought the matter to the WTO.
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