US Will Open Talks With Japan on Import Steel, Aluminum Tariffs

Trade Representative Katherine Tai attends a keynote address and conversation hosted by the Graduate Institute's Geneva Trade Platform about the World Trade Organizations important role in the global economy during her visit in Geneva, Switzerland on Oct. 14, 2021. Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images

WASHINGTON—The United States said on Friday it will open talks with Japan that could lead to an easing of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, a longstanding irritant in trade relations between the two allies.

The U.S. Commerce Department and the United States Trade Representative’s Office said the talks were aimed at addressing “global steel and aluminum excess capacity,” restoring market-oriented conditions and preserving critical industries.