South Korea strongly complained to Canada, asking it to immediately drop new import restrictions on steel.

Canada recently announced rules that will cut the tariff-free quota for steel from free trade agreement partners, including South Korea, from 100% to 75% on certain products. The new policy also adds a 25% tariff on steel parts such as wire and fasteners. Canada says the step protects its own steel industry.

Deputy Minister of Trade Park Jung-sung said that the quotas are unacceptable and may violate international trade regulations. He warned the measures could damage South Korean companies' investments in Canada and affect broader cooperation in areas like defense, artificial intelligence, and batteries.