Starting March 12, 2025, a 25% tariff will apply to all steel, aluminum, and specified derivative products imported into the U.S. Additionally, an expanded list of derivative products will also be subject to tariffs once the Secretary of Commerce confirms a system is in place to efficiently process and collect them.
For steel derivative products not classified under HTSUS Chapter 73, the tariff will apply only to the steel content of the product. Similarly, for aluminum derivative products not classified under HTSUS Chapter 76, the 25% tariff will apply only to the aluminum content. If the primary aluminum originates from Russia and is produced using the electrolytic Hall-Heroult process, it will be subject to a 200% tariff. However, derivative steel products made in another country using U.S.-melted and poured steel will be exempt from these tariffs if proper certification is provided to CBP. Importers must also provide documentation regarding the aluminum content of aluminum derivative articles, with further CBP guidance expected soon.
All previous trade agreements on steel and aluminum with Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, the EU, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Ukraine, the UAE, and the UK will be canceled effective March 12. Meanwhile, steel and derivative products from Turkey will face a 50% tariff. No new exclusions or exemptions will be issued starting February 11, and all generally approved exclusions will terminate on March 12. However, importers with existing exclusions will be allowed to use them until the expiration date or until their excluded volume is exhausted, whichever comes first.
To ensure compliance, CBP will prioritize reviewing classification of steel and aluminum imports and will impose monetary penalties for misclassification. No duty drawback will be allowed on these tariffs. Additionally, imports entering Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) on or after March 12 at 12:01 AM must be admitted under “privileged foreign status” and will be subject to the tariffs upon entry for consumption.
The Commerce Department has been directed to develop a process within 90 days for adding additional products to the tariff list. Domestic steel and aluminum producers, as well as industry associations, will have the opportunity to petition for the inclusion of new products, with Commerce making determinations within 60 days. Given these changes, businesses should stay updated to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
For more information, please visit: White House Fact Sheet