Mexico’s economy secretariat, SE, has condemned Canada’s decision to impose provisional safeguarding duties of 25 percent over certain steel imports, which affects Mexico.
Canada announced on October 11 provisional safeguarding measures over seven steel products: heavy plate, concrete reinforcing bar, energy tubular products, hot-rolled sheet, pre-painted steel, stainless steel wire, and wire rod. The announcement said the move aims to “stand up” for Canadian steelmakers.
“Mexico will carefully review the measures imposed, since they could result in the violation of Canada’s international commitments over the NAFTA agreement, putting at risk the trade integration and the competitiveness of the regional industry,” a Mexico’s government statement said.
SE complained about the fact Canada’s decision was taken amid a moment both countries managed to advance trade negotiations aiming an improved regional integration.
“The Mexican government will take the necessary actions to protect Mexican exporters in the short-term, in addition to using all available mechanisms in the NAFTA and WTO until it reaches its exclusion from (Canada’s) safeguarding duties,” a statement from SE said.