Canada files a WTO lawsuit against U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has received a protest from Canada about US President Donald Trump’s 25% import duties on steel and aluminum. Despite nations’ efforts to avoid them, the tariffs, which went into effect on Wednesday, have no exceptions.

The actions, which raise charges on aluminum goods and end Canada’s exemption from higher tariffs on some steel and aluminum products, are allegedly in conflict with US commitments, according to Canada. According to the World Trade Organization, Canada’s request for consultations legally starts a dispute inside the Geneva-based organization.

Brazil and the European Union are the top two suppliers of steel to the United States, behind Canada. Approximately 50% of the steel and aluminum used in the US to produce everything from cars and airplanes to soft drink cans is imported. Trump wants to safeguard the dwindling American steel sector from increasing competition, particularly from Asia. The complaint may ask for panel adjudication if talks are unable to settle the disagreement.