WTO investigation into US steel tariffs could take up to several years

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has decided to create panels to review tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum by the Trump administration. The WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) has agreed to form groups to study this issue. Along with investigating the legality of the aforementioned tariffs, the groups would also listen to complaints filed by Washington regarding reciprocal tariffs imposed by other countries. By the way, the US administration has imposed high duties of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum imports into the country.

DSB agreed to create separate panels for complaints filed by the European Union, China, Canada, Mexico, Norway and Russia. This follows the US opposition to the creation of a single commission to deal with all complaints filed by various countries. In addition, he also agreed to form three groups to deal with complaints against tariff retaliation imposed by the European Union, Canada and China. In addition to the aforementioned countries, India, Mexico, Russia and Turkey have also imposed reciprocal charges in response to US tariffs.

The WTO rejected the first set of panel requests last month, leading to a second request.

The creation of DSB panels will now spark a protracted legal battle that can last up to several years. The imposition of tariffs and reciprocal tariffs has already created conditions for trade tensions between the countries of the world and the United States.