While quota deals agreed to by the U.S. and other countries in exchange for immunity from Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum could run up against World Trade Organization rules, analysts say the chances of a third-party challenge are slim due to litigation costs and other uncertainties.
The U.S. has agreed in principle to quota arrangements with Argentina, Brazil, South Korea and Australia and extended immunity from the tariffs to Canada, Mexico and the European Union until June 1.
While sources say the arrangements with Brazil, Argentina and Australia are still being finalized, the U.S. has pitched the quotas in a “take it or leave it” fashion, one said -- drawing comparisons to what are known as voluntary export restraints... FULL STORY