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New U.S. metal tariffs likely to reduce burden on Korean companies, trade minister says

Published: 09 Apr. 2026, 12:36

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo speaks during a public-private joint review of international trade of steel products at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in central Seoul on April 9. [YONHAP]

The recent adjustment by the United States of its metal tariffs will likely reduce the overall administrative burden on Korean companies, though the impact may differ by item, Seoul's trade minister said Thursday, vowing efforts to help companies minimize their burden.

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo made the assessment during a meeting with officials from industries affected by U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper imports, as well as their derivatives, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources.

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump simplified its tariffs on such products earlier this week to take effect based on "full customs value." Previously, the United States imposed metal duties based on the value of the metal content in each of the products — a more complicated calculation.

With the simplification, the overall administrative burden on domestic companies and uncertainties related to customs clearance are expected to decrease, Yeo said.

Under the new system, the number of products subject to the metal tariffs went down by 17 percent, with cosmetics, chemical, furniture and other products excluded from the list, according to the ministry.

Yeo, however, said the government will remain vigilant as the United States may include additional items on the list of derivatives subject to tariffs after a planned review of the system, while continuing efforts to devise necessary support measures for companies.

Yonhap