Japanese Firm Nippon Steel to Sue US Government After Biden Blocks Steel Buying Deal

January 4, 2025

By The South Asia Times

TOKYO - Japanese steel giant Nippon Steel Corporation has decided to sue the United States government following President Joe Biden's decision to block a proposed steel purchasing agreement, Kyodo News Agency reported on Saturday.

The deal, reportedly worth over 14 billion , was halted as part of the administration's broader efforts to prioritize domestic steel production and ensure national economic security.

In a statement, Nippon Steel expressed disappointment over the decision, arguing that the move undermines fair trade practices and jeopardizes international business relations. The company plans to pursue legal action, claiming that the decision violates trade agreements between Japan and the United States.

The Biden administration defended its position, citing the need to bolster the American steel industry and safeguard jobs within the sector. This development comes amid heightened tensions over global trade policies and protectionist measures implemented by various governments.

The legal battle, if pursued, could set a precedent for future international trade disputes involving foreign companies and US policy decisions. It remains to be seen how this will impact diplomatic relations between the two nations and the global steel market.