U.S. expands tariffs on steel and aluminum imports

On February 10, 2025, the U.S. government issued a proclamation announcing significant changes to tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which will take effect on March 12, 2025. One of the key changes is the introduction of a flat 25% tariff on all imports of these metals. As a result, previous exemptions for countries such as Canada and Mexico, as well as Tariff Rate Quotas for Europe and other originating countries, have been revoked, as all country-specific exemptions and alternative agreements have been eliminated. Additionally, product-specific exclusion requests will no longer be processed, and existing general exemptions will expire on the effective date. The primary goal of this measure is to close existing loopholes that have allowed tariff evasion.

Additionally, the scope of the tariffs has been expanded. Under Section 232 of the proclamation, tariffs now apply to key downstream products (derivatives) that had not been specifically addressed before. The official publication in the Federal Register is still pending. At the same time, stricter production requirements have been introduced: steel and aluminum must now fully comply with the "melted and poured" standards, meaning they must be entirely melted and cast in the country of origin. Furthermore, it has been clarified that derivative steel products not covered under Chapter 73—such as all alloys containing steel—will be subject to a 25% tariff based on their steel content. The exact implementation procedures are expected to be defined within the next 90 days.

For importers, these changes mean rising costs, as the additional tariffs will have a direct impact on pricing. Companies sourcing steel and aluminum from abroad should review and, if necessary, adjust their supply chains, as downstream products now fall under the new regulations. Additionally, strict compliance with the new production standards is required to avoid penalties or import restrictions.

The full text of the proclamation can be read here.

We are happy to assist you in adapting to these new tariff regulations. Your EgeTrans representative is available to support you.