South Korea prepares support measures as Donald Trump’s US tariffs loom

Staff Writers
Reuters
South Korea's exports to the US hit $213b in 2024 with cars accounting for 27 per cent of the total. (AP PHOTO)
South Korea's exports to the US hit $213b in 2024 with cars accounting for 27 per cent of the total. (AP PHOTO) Credit: AAP

South Korea’s finance minister says the government will prepare support measures for sectors with urgent needs, ahead of US President Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariff.

“Minister Choi Sang-mok emphasised the need to analyse the impact on the macroeconomy and prepare support measures for sectors with urgent needs,” the ministry said in a statement.

On April 2, Trump introduced a blanket tariff on imports to the United States and higher tariffs against “worst offenders”, including a 25 per cent duty on imports from South Korea, to come into force on Wednesday.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-soo said last week the government would prepare support measures for the auto sector and seek negotiations with the Trump administration.

South Korea’s exports to the US hit a record high of $US127.8 billion ($A213.4 billion) in 2024, with automobiles - the top-selling product - accounting for 27 per cent of the total.

On Monday, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok and other policymakers also reviewed a response strategy ahead of Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo’s visit to the US.

Cheong’s upcoming visit will be the fifth senior-level visit from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Energy since Trump took office.

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 07-04-2025

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 7 April 20257 April 2025

Market bloodbath continues across globe as unapologetic Trump warns world to take its ‘medicine’.