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The Trump effect

Trump's steel tariffs push Asia toward trade-war footing

Stocks fall as analysts warn of intensifying US-China tit for tat

A screen shows the Nikkei index dropping in Tokyo on March 2. (Photo by Yoichi Iwata)

TOKYO -- U.S. President Donald Trump's decision on Thursday to impose steep tariffs on steel and aluminum imports has sparked concern over excess supply in Asia and the possibility of a trade war.

In a highly unusual move, the Trump administration cited national security as a reason for imposing a 25% tariff on steel and 10% levy on aluminum. The U.S. Commerce Department argues that relying on imported metals would make the country unable to meet its military needs in a time of war.

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