WELLINGTON, May 2 (Xinhua) --The New Zealand government is disappointed that it has not been included in the U.S. announcement on exemptions from steel and aluminum tariffs, Trade and Export Growth Minister David Parker said on Wednesday.
"Disappointment has also been expressed by other countries including South Africa and Japan, which has reportedly described the move as extremely regrettable," Parker said in a statement, adding the situation remains unclear even in regard to those countries named as havin an exemption.
"We are concerned at the possible implications for our domestic producers. While our exports of steel and aluminum to the United States are not large, they are important to the businesses and workers in those industries," Parker said.
The omission of New Zealand from the list of exempted countries belies the positive bilateral relationship, he said, adding they are seeking clarity from the U.S. administration on the way forward.
