Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Locked In for Security Sake
Published Date: 6/9/2025
Presidential Document
Summary
The U.S. is keeping a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum to protect national security. This affects companies bringing in these metals from all countries, making imports more expensive. These rules started in 2018 and continue through 2025, helping American industries stay strong and competitive.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 5 costs, 0 mixed.
Tariffs Raised to 50% on Steel & Aluminum
As of 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 4, 2025, the proclamation increases additional ad valorem tariffs on steel articles and aluminum articles (and their derivatives) from 25 percent to 50 percent. If you import steel or aluminum into the United States, your imports will face the higher 50% duty rate on or after that date.
Strict Declaration Rules and Severe Penalties
U.S. Customs and Border Protection will issue guidance requiring strict declarations of steel and aluminum content in imported articles and will outline maximum penalties for noncompliance. Importers who underreport metal content may face significant monetary penalties, loss of import privileges, and possible criminal liability consistent with U.S. law.
United Kingdom Tariff Exception at 25%
Articles from the United Kingdom that would otherwise be covered remain subject to a 25 percent ad valorem duty instead of 50 percent. On or after July 9, 2025, the Secretary may adjust those rates or impose quotas under the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, or increase the UK rate to 50 percent if the Secretary finds noncompliance.
No Duty Drawback Allowed
The proclamation states that no drawback (refund of duties) shall be available with respect to the duties imposed by this proclamation. If you relied on drawback for imported steel or aluminum duties, you will not be able to reclaim those duties under this action.
Foreign-Trade Zone Admission and Duty Rules
Imports of listed steel and aluminum articles admitted into U.S. foreign-trade zones before 12:01 a.m. on June 4, 2025, will be subject to the tariff in effect at the time of entry for consumption. Articles admitted into a foreign-trade zone on or after June 4, 2025, may be admitted only under 'privileged foreign status' and will be subject upon entry for consumption to the applicable ad valorem rates.
Tariff Treatment for Non-Metal Content Specified
The proclamation makes the additional ad valorem duties apply only to steel content in HTSUS Chapter 73 and aluminum content in HTSUS Chapter 76; non-aluminum and non-steel content of imported articles will be subject to tariffs under Executive Order 14257 and other applicable tariffs. CBP and the Secretary will determine HTSUS modifications if needed.
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