Aluminum Association Voices Concern Over Doubling of Section 232 Tariffs

The Trump administration’s recent move to double Section 232 tariffs on imported aluminum—from 25% to 50%—has drawn sharp criticism from the Aluminum Association, which represents 70% of domestic aluminum production and the broader industry supply chain.

According to an official statement released by the Association’s President and CEO Charles Johnson, the new tariff level could have unintended negative effects on the very industry the policy aims to support. “Critically, a 50% tariff rate could also raise prices for consumers, decrease demand and undermine the aluminum industry’s ability to serve the U.S. defense industrial base,” Johnson stated.

As reported by industry sources, aluminum and steel possess fundamentally different supply chains and strategic market challenges. The Association warned that applying a uniform trade approach to both materials could lead to harmful economic consequences.

The statement further emphasized that U.S. aluminum producers require a stable supply of metal, protection against transshipped imports from non-market economies, and consistency in tariff policy to operate effectively. Johnson also noted the industry’s appreciation for the administration’s commitment to revitalizing domestic production and jobs but urged the government to reevaluate the tariff increase.

“We look forward to working closely with the administration to clearly articulate industry concerns related to Section 232 tariffs and provide alternative actions that will better support the future growth of the U.S. aluminum industry,” the statement concluded.

Source: The Aluminum Association