Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
573. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the impact on industry here as a result of the US announcement on duties imposed on steel and aluminium and specifically on a company (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25586/18]
View answerOn 31May 2018, the US announced that it will impose tariffs on steel (25%) and aluminium (10%) imports from the European Union to the US from the 1st June 2018. This followed the expiry of temporary exemptions granted to the EU in respect of the original Presidential Proclamations imposing these tariffs from the 23rd March 2018. The measures were introduced following an investigation by the US Department of Commerce into the effect of those industries on US national security. Ireland is deeply disappointed by the US decision to end the temporary exemption tariffs on steel and aluminium which had been granted to EU.
The EU is of the view that these tariffs are unjustified and in conflict with WTO rules. Over the past number of months, the EU, Ireland and other Member States have engaged with the US at all possible levels and with other partners to find a solution to the problem of overcapacity in the steel sector. These were issues I raised with Commerce Secretary Ross during my recent visit to Washington in May. I regret that these efforts, by the EU Trade Commissioner, Ireland and other Member States have not resulted in the EU being provided with a permanent exemption from US tariffs. The EU has continually indicated its openness to discuss ways to improve bilateral trade relations but has been clear that any talks must be preceded by a permanent exemption.
Ireland fully supports the EU Commission in its determination to fully protect the EU’s commercial interests from US steel and aluminium tariffs, in a WTO compatible manner. This includes the launching of proceedings against the US at the WTO, the imposition of rebalancing tariff measures (i.e. withdrawing tariff concessions on a number of imports from the US) and the possible imposition of safeguard measures (import quotas or tariffs to shield EU producers from a sudden influx of steel or aluminium into the EU market that would have ordinarily been destined for the US market).
With regard to the company referenced, its main activity is the production of alumina which is then exported for further processing to aluminium. I understand that the company does not directly export to the US and that the tariffs in question may therefore have limited immediate direct impact. However, it may be the case that customers of the firm could be affected. The IDA is therefore closely engaging with the company to determine the potential scope of any impact and we will continue to closely monitor the situation as it evolves.
