Politics ASIA, BIDEN ADMINISTRATION, BUSINESS STANDARD, CHINA, ECONOMICS, ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE, GEOPOLITICS, KOREA, SOUTH, LABOR STRIKE, LEE JAE MYUNG, MEXICO, NEW YORK TIMES, NORTH AMERICA, SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA, STANDARD, UNITED STATES, US, US CONGRESS, US-CHINA RELATIONS, WASHINGTON, WHITE HOUSE, YE, YEO, YEO HAN - KOO, YORK TIMES Clara Montgomery June 22, 2025 0 Comments

South Korea to Raise Concerns Over Potential Curbs on Chipmakers in China

South Korea’s Trade Minister plans to address concerns over potential U.S. restrictions on chipmakers in China during meetings in Washington. Following a 10 percent tariff and a paused 25 percent duty, he suggests ongoing discussions may extend beyond the July deadline, addressing issues including U.S. beef imports.

South Korea is set to raise significant concerns regarding potential United States restrictions on chipmakers operating in China during a key meeting in Washington this week. Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, the country’s top trade negotiator, is heading to a third round of technical discussions in tariff talks with U.S. officials. He indicated that he would convey industry worries about the implications of U.S. policies on foreign chipmakers functioning in China.

In comments made prior to his departure, Yeo emphasized his commitment to address these worries, stating, “I will pass on the concerns among those in the industry and take utmost care.” This dialogue comes at a crucial time when the U.S. is contemplating policies that could complicate the business landscape for international semiconductor companies in China.

The trade discussion is particularly pressing as South Korea currently faces a general 10 percent tariff from the U.S., with an additional 25 percent country-specific duty momentarily on hold for a period of 90 days. A preliminary trade agreement aiming to reduce tariffs by July 8 was reached in late April, but Yeo hinted that this timeline might be extended amid ongoing political and economic uncertainties in the U.S.

Yeo Han-koo was appointed by newly-elected President Lee Jae Myung, who came to power following a snap election on June 3. The President has voiced the need for a careful, measured approach to trade agreements, suggesting that haste is unnecessary as South Korea navigates its economic relationship with the U.S.

In addition to discussions about semiconductor restrictions, Yeo mentioned his plans to consult with officials from the White House and Congress regarding other trade matters. One notable issue on the agenda is the U.S. request for South Korea to ease its restrictions on imports of American beef. This broader discourse surrounding trade is expected to shape the future of South Korea’s economic ties with the U.S. as both nations confront complex international trade dynamics.

In summary, South Korea’s Trade Minister is set to openly discuss industry concerns related to U.S. restrictions on chipmakers in China, during his meetings in Washington. He is also prepared to address broader trade issues, including American beef imports. The complexity of the current political and economic landscape suggests that ongoing discussions may extend beyond the July 8 deadline, reflecting the necessity for a nuanced approach in these trade negotiations.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com