U.S. to lower tariffs on South Korean autos to 15% effective Nov 1, Lutnick says

U.S. to lower tariffs on South Korean autos to 15% effective Nov 1, Lutnick says
An American flag waves outside the U.S. Department of Justice Building in Washington, U.S., December 15, 2020
Reuters

The United States will reduce import duties on South Korean automobiles to 15%, effective retroactively from November 1, according to an announcement by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Tuesday.

This decision aligns the U.S. tariff rate with the reciprocal tariffs imposed on Japan and the European Union (EU), marking a significant step in the trade relations between the two countries.

The tariff reduction follows a trade agreement reached last month between the U.S. and South Korea, which included provisions for adjustments in import duties as part of broader economic cooperation. Lutnick confirmed that the reduction in tariffs came after South Korea introduced a bill aimed at implementing investment pledges made to the U.S., further solidifying the two countries' economic ties.

The move is expected to benefit South Korean automakers by making their vehicles more competitively priced in the U.S. market, while also encouraging reciprocal investment flows between the two nations. This adjustment in tariff policy marks a significant shift in the U.S.'s trade approach with South Korea, especially after years of fluctuating trade policies.

In his statement posted on social media platform X, Lutnick reiterated the importance of these measures in promoting fair and balanced trade agreements. He emphasized that the trade deal, including the auto tariff reduction, reflects a commitment to creating favorable conditions for U.S. businesses and consumers while strengthening the economic partnership with South Korea.

The tariff reduction is expected to have a positive impact on U.S. consumers by providing more affordable South Korean-made vehicles. It also enhances the overall competitiveness of the U.S. automotive market, which is increasingly influenced by global trade dynamics.

As the U.S. and South Korea continue to expand their trade relationship, the lower tariff rates are seen as a step toward further economic integration, with both countries benefiting from more accessible markets and strengthened bilateral investments.

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