US allies in Asia and Europe are still waiting for promised tariff relief on automobiles and steel, the Wall Street Journal reported today. The article says prior discussions involved potential reductions—for example, trimming a 25% auto tariff to 15%—in exchange for investment commitments and increased purchases of US goods. However, duties remain in place, affecting major exporters including Japan and South Korea; the WSJ cited estimates such as Toyota’s projected profit impact amid continued uncertainty. The report characterizes the administration’s approach as relying on informal pledges rather than binding trade agreements, complicating implementation and timelines. European and UK officials have also sought clarity on the scope and timing of relief, with discrepancies over documentation and terms. The status quo has implications for steel flows and downstream manufacturing supply chains where tariff costs influence sourcing decisions. The article notes the administration’s position that any changes were not binding commitments, leaving partners to manage ongoing tariff exposure