The United States is considering introducing anti-dumping duties for some South Korean tapered roller bearings as it ramps up trade pressure on the South.  

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced on Tuesday that it made a preliminary decision to slap up to 45 percent in anti-dumping duties on certain tapered roller bearings from South Korea.

The department said it assessed that exporters from Korea have sold certain tapered roller bearings in the United States at up to around 45 percent less than their fair value.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said that the United States values its relationship with South Korea, but added that trading partners “must play by the rules.” He then said that the department will continue to review all information related to this case before making a final decision. 

The department noted that in 2016, imports of certain tapered roller bearings from South Korea were valued at an estimated 60 million dollars.

Earlier on Monday, the Commerce Department had issued affirmative preliminary anti-dumping duty determinations on low melt polyester staple fiber from South Korea and Taiwan.