Brussels, 04/04/2002 (Agence Europe) - Japan has asked the European Union for explanations about the safeguard measures implemented to protect the European market from an increase in imports following the closure of the American market. The consultation demanded by Japan aims to determine whether the measures taken by the European Commission are compatible with WTO rules and do not go further than the original objective. Japan also wants to ensure that these safeguard measures do not increase the share of European producers in the Community market to the detriment of third countries. EU measures have also been criticised by China and South Korea, who believe that they will aggravate the situation on the world steel market. Japanese Trade Minister, Takeo Hiranuma, indicated in Tokyo on Tuesday that discussions are planned for 11 April with the European Union and South Korea on the USA decision to raise customs duties by 30% on steel products for three years as from 20 of March. According to Japanese government sources, quoted by Reuters, consultation sought by Japan on European safeguard measures do not jeopardise co-operation with the EU in its efforts against US measures. Japan, China and South Korea have, like the EU, lodged complaints against these measures with the body at the World Trade Organisation responsible for settling disputes.