TOKYO - Japan has formally requested an exemption from the 25 per cent tariffs imposed on its steel and aluminium products by US President Donald Trump, Trade Minister Yoji Muto announced on Wednesday.
"We will take firm and necessary measures while closely monitoring any possible impact on Japanese companies," Muto said in a press conference, as quoted by Kyodo news agency.
He referred to the tariffs, which Trump declared would be enforced "without exceptions."
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi separately confirmed that the government had conveyed its request through the Japanese Embassy in the United States.
According to the White House, the tariffs are set to take effect on March 12. This marks Trump’s first sector-specific tariff order since assuming office last month.
Under the administration of his predecessor, Joe Biden, several US trading partners, including Japan, were granted duty-free quotas. However, Trump on Monday signed proclamations revoking these exemptions. - BERNAMA-KYODO