“The Trade Expansion Act (TEA) has clear statutory authority. It’s been used before. It’ll probably be used again, whether now or next year, said Patrick Anderson,* Anderson Economic Group CEO today speaking to the Automotive Press Association.

“It’s commonly called section 232, but it’s traditionally section 232. We have been advising our clients back in December to expect given the President’s statements about this time that you would could see. The President asked for reports from the Commerce Secretary, in particular, about the impact of imports and whether this represented a problem for the United States.** In fact, the President on Inauguration Day signed Memorandum directing the Treasury and Commerce to review this set April deadline for the reports. (perhaps April Fools’ Day is ironically appropriate here – AutoCrat)

“This mechanism is in play right now. So even though there might be these other things that are coming up, I would suggest keep your eye on TEA section 232 in these reports coming out in April, because, unquestionably, the president has authority to use that – to adjust imports through tariffs,” said Anderson.