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Section 232 Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Surge to 50%: Key Changes for Importers


A worker in protective gear manages the intense process of melting steel at a bustling steel mill, with sparks flying as molten metal is poured from a large ladle.
A worker in protective gear manages the intense process of melting steel at a bustling steel mill, with sparks flying as molten metal is poured from a large ladle.

On June 3, 2025, President Donald J. Trump announced a significant escalation of Section 232 tariffs, doubling the ad valorem rate on steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50% for most countries, effective June 4, 2025. Detailed in the White House Fact Sheet, these measures aim to protect U.S. national security by countering global overcapacity and unfair trade practices. This blog post outlines the key changes, their implications, and steps importers can take to stay compliant.

What’s New with Section 232 Tariffs?

The Section 232 tariffs, enacted under the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, regulate steel and aluminum imports to safeguard domestic industries critical to national security. The latest proclamation introduces sweeping changes that will impact importers across multiple sectors.

1. Tariff Rates Doubled to 50%

  • Effective Date: June 4, 2025

  • Scope: The tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, including derivative products, have increased from 25% to 50% ad valorem for all countries except the United Kingdom.

  • Details: The duty applies solely to the steel and aluminum content of imported products. Non-metal content is subject to other applicable tariffs.

  • UK Exception: Imports from the UK remain at 25%, with potential adjustments or import quotas starting July 9, 2025, pending the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal.

2. Expanded Steel Derivative Products

As of June 23, 2025, new steel derivative products under HTSUS Chapters 84, 85, and 94 are subject to tariffs, including:

  • Combined refrigerator-freezers (HTSUS 8418.10.00)

  • Small and large dryers (HTSUS 8451.21.00, 8451.29.00)

  • Washing machines (HTSUS 8450.11.00, 8450.20.00)

  • Dishwashers (HTSUS 8422.11.00)

  • Chest and upright freezers (HTSUS 8418.30.00, 8418.40.00)

  • Cooking stoves, ranges, and ovens (HTSUS 8516.60.40)

  • Food waste disposals (HTSUS 8509.80.20)

  • Welded wire racks (HTSUS 9403.99.9020, also subject to aluminum tariffs)

These products are reported under:

  • HTSUS 9903.81.91: 50% duty for non-UK countries

  • HTSUS 9903.81.98: 25% duty for the UK

  • HTSUS 9903.81.92: 0% duty for U.S.-melted steel processed abroad

3. Existing Steel and Aluminum Products

The tariffs continue to cover a broad range of products, including:

  • Steel: Flat-rolled products (HTSUS 7208–7212, 7225–7226), bars, rods, angles, shapes, sections, wire, sheet piling, rails (HTSUS 7213–7217, 7227–7229, 7301–7302), tubes, pipes, hollow profiles (HTSUS 7304–7306), ingots, semi-finished products (HTSUS 7206–7207, 7224), and stainless steel (HTSUS 7218–7223).

  • Derivatives: Nails, staples, bumper/body stampings, and more (e.g., HTSUS 7317.00.30, 8708.10.30).

  • Aluminum: Similar categories, with duties applied to aluminum content.

4. Compliance and Reporting Requirements

Importers must adhere to strict guidelines:

  • Content Reporting: Report the country of melt and pour for steel and primary/secondary countries of smelt and cast for aluminum. See CSMS #65236374 for details.

  • Penalties: False declarations may result in fines or loss of import rights.

  • No Drawback: Duties under the new proclamation are not eligible for drawback.

  • Foreign Trade Zones: Goods admitted under “privileged foreign status” before June 4, 2025, are subject to the new rates if entered for consumption on or after that date.

Why These Changes Matter

The tariff increase addresses critical challenges facing U.S. industries:

  • Global Overcapacity: Countries flooding the U.S. market with subsidized steel and aluminum have driven domestic steel capacity utilization to 75.3% and aluminum to 55% by 2023, threatening national security.

  • Economic Impact: The first Trump administration’s tariffs (2018–2020) reduced steel and aluminum imports by nearly a third, spurred over $10 billion in U.S. mill investments, and created thousands of jobs. The new measures aim to build on this progress.

For importers, the 50% tariff rate could significantly raise costs, particularly for products with high steel or aluminum content, such as appliances, construction materials, and automotive parts.

How Importers Can Prepare

To navigate these changes effectively:

  1. Audit Your Imports: Identify products under affected HTSUS codes and assess the impact of the 50% tariff rate.

  2. Verify Metal Content: Accurately report steel and aluminum content values to ensure compliance with CBP requirements.

  3. Check Country of Origin: Determine if your products qualify for the 0% duty rate (U.S.-melted steel processed abroad) or the UK’s 25% rate.

  4. Leverage Resources: Consult the Section 232 Tariffs FAQs and CSMS #65236374 for guidance on reporting and compliance.

  5. Seek CBP Support: For filing issues, contact the CBP Trade Remedy Branch at TradeRemedy@cbp.dhs.gov or your CBP client representative.

Looking Ahead

The Section 232 tariff increase signals a robust U.S. stance on protecting domestic industries, but it also presents challenges for importers. Staying informed and proactive is essential to managing costs and ensuring compliance. Our team is here to help you assess the impact and develop strategies to adapt to these changes. Contact us at [Your Company Contact Information] for tailored support.


Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for specific guidance.

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