Stocks plunge in Asia after Trump announces steel tariffs

Investors lose confidence amid prospect of rampant protectionism

0303N stocks

The Nikkei Stock Average fell 2.5% to finish at 21,181.64 Friday.

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Metal and automotive stocks sank in Asia on Friday amid concerns that U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will spur protectionist policies around the world.

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