The Commerce Department submitted its findings in February to the president after conducting an investigation into whether car imports pose a national-security threat. Trump had until Saturday to decide how to respond, including whether to impose tariffs or defer any action. The car inquiry covered imports of vehicles including SUVs, vans and light trucks, as well as auto parts. The move will allow more time for the Trump administration to negotiate trade accords with the EU and Japan, major car exporters to the US who have staged lobbying campaigns against any tariffs. Trump has used the threat of automobile tariffs of as much as 25% to gain leverage in negotiations.

Source: Bangkok Post May 17, 2019 13:30 UTC