Tokyo stocks open flat over U.S. tariff reports, easing Italy concerns

TOKYO, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks opened flat Friday as investors sold on the back of concerns the United States will impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the European Union, Canada and Mexico, and bought on the back of receding concerns over politics in Italy.

As of 9:15 a.m., the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average shed 20.09 points, or 0.09 percent, from Thursday to 22,181.73.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, edged down 2.62 points, or 0.15 percent, to 1,744.83.

Electric power and gas, marine transportation and rubber product issues comprised notable decliners, while mining, pulp and paper, and pharmaceutical issues led gainers in the opening minutes from the morning bell. Enditem