Key Points
Industry seeks govt support amid US tariff fears
GM Korea may exit over export reliance
Emergency liquidity for parts makers proposed
Trade talks urged to avoid competitive disadvantage
Local industry representatives made the call during a meeting with First Vice Industry Minister Park Sung-taek, who visited Kia Corp.'s car manufacturing facility in Gwangmyeong, just south of Seoul, and a major export port in Pyeongtaek, about 65 kms south of Seoul, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.
The meeting came amid mounting concerns over the impact of the planned U.S. auto tariffs on the local industry, which heavily relies on export, reports Yonhap news agency.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday (U.S. time) to impose 25 percent tariffs on all imported cars and key auto parts. They are set to take effect next Wednesday.
The ministry said industry officials asked the government to continue negotiations with the Trump administration to prevent Korean carmakers from getting unfavourable treatment compared to their rivals under the U.S. tariff scheme.
They also urged measures to support auto parts manufacturers expected to be dealt a big blow from Washington's moves, such as an emergency liquidity program and consultations on market diversification.
In particular, concerns have swirled among industry observers that GM Korea Co., the South Korean unit of General Motors Co., may pull out of the country, as 85 percent of vehicles produced by the company are exported to the U.S.
In an investors conference on Jan. 29, GM Korea's Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson reportedly said the company may need to consider relocating its manufacturing facilities if the U.S. tariffs become permanent.
The ministry plans to devise emergency response measures to U.S. auto tariffs next month, including ways to improve environment for corporate investments here.
