The US claims 'national security' as the justification for imposing the tariffs - which could have major implications in future for NZ. (Photo \ Getty Images)

'Slippery slope' for NZ if US gets away with steel tariffs

Author: Juliette Sivertsen,
Publish Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2018, 7:50am

A trade consultant's warning the Government to carefully consider the implications of US steel and aluminium tariffs.

President Donald Trump is using 'national security' as the justification for imposing the tariffs.

New Zealand - like several other countries - is seeking an exemption.

Saunders Unsworth trade consultant Charles Finny doesn't believe national security is a legitimate reason for the protection.

He told Kate Hawkesby if it can be done for steel, then it could be done for dairy and agricultural products.

"We're on a slippery slope if this does go ahead.

"So I think our government should not just be thinking about steel but should be thinking about the wider systemic implications if the United States is allowed to get away with this one."

LISTEN ABOVE AS CHARLES FINNY SPEAKS WITH KATE HAWKESBY

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