Washington: South Korea's top trade official has asked the U.S. Donald Trump administration to lower its sectoral tariffs on automobiles, steel, and other items for Korean companies during a meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. This information was shared by Seoul's trade ministry on Tuesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo engaged in discussions with Lutnick in Washington on Monday to address a variety of trade issues between the two nations, specifically focusing on tariffs and industrial cooperation. Yeo emphasized South Korea's dedication to strengthening manufacturing partnerships with the U.S. and urged the Trump administration to extend "favorable treatment" to Korean companies concerning tariffs on imported automobiles, steel, and other goods.

Over the weekend, Yeo also held discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, suggesting the establishment of a "mutually beneficial" manufacturing cooperation framework between South Korea and the U.S. The talks are part of Seoul's broader strategy to seek full exemption or reduction of U.S. reciprocal tariffs and sectoral duties on key imports.

South Korea has a three-week window to finalize trade negotiations with the U.S., as President Trump has extended the pause on reciprocal tariffs for major trading partners until August 1. This extension provides additional time for both countries to negotiate a comprehensive package deal covering tariffs, non-tariff measures, industrial cooperation, and other trade-related issues.