US suspends steel tariffs coming from Ukraine for one year

“We cannot only admire the courage and spirit of the Ukrainian people, we must support them, and one of the most important industries for the economic welfare of Ukraine”, US Trade Secretary Gina Raimondo said, announcing the decision.

For steel factories to continue operating as an economic rescue tool for the people of Ukraine, they should be able to export their steel”, she said.

But it is not yet clear how much this decision can help Ukraine's economy. The US is the world's largest steel importer, but according to a 2019 government report, Ukraine was not among the top 10 steel exporters to the US.

Washington says the Ukrainian steel industry employs one in 13 workers in the country, but steel factories in Ukraine have been among the most hit targets during Russia's attack, including the key factory “Azovstal” in the port city of Mariupol.

Despite the serious situation, American officials said some of the factories have continued to pay, feed and house their workers.