Turkey submits formal World Trade Organization complaint over US metals tariffs

 Turkey has formally requested dispute consultations with the World Trade Organization over the additional import duties the US has imposed on Turkish steel and aluminum imports, the WTO said Monday.

President Donald Trump on August 10 announced the US would double Turkey's tariff rate on steel imports to 50% and on aluminum to 20%, effective August 13. Turkey previously had been subject to the US Section 232 25% tariff on steel imports and 10% tariff on aluminum imports since taking effect March 23. 

In its complaint, Turkey says the metals tariffs are inconsistent with provisions of the WTO's General Agreement of Tariffs and Trade and with the WTO's agreement on safeguards.

Turkey is the ninth member to request dispute settlement proceedings with the trade body over the tariffs. Canada, Mexico, the EU, China, India, Norway, Switzerland and Russia previously filed requests with the WTO, citing similar grounds.