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Aluminum takeaways after 'Liberation Day' - Steel Market Update

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Aluminum Tariffs After 'Liberation Day'

This article analyzes the impact of President Trump's 'Liberation Day' announcement on aluminum imports into the United States. The new tariffs significantly alter the landscape of aluminum trade.

Key Changes

Aluminum Scrap: Subject to a 10% tariff, reversing previous exemptions.
Cans and Beer: Remain under Section 232 tariffs, not subject to the new blanket tariff.
Canada and Mexico: USMCA compliance is critical; non-compliant goods face 25% duties.
China, Hong Kong, Macau: Face full tariff rates to prevent transshipment.
Other Countries: Refer to Annex I and II of the Executive Order for detailed tariff information.

The changes represent a substantial shift in US trade policy, aiming to incentivize domestic manufacturing.

If you import aluminum products, here’s where things stand after President Trump’s “Liberation Day.”

Most aluminum products, including primary, derivatives, beer, and cans, remain under Section 232 and are excluded from the new blanket tariff.

However, aluminum scrap (HTS 7602.0.00) is not excluded under the April 2 directive, and per the US Department of Commerce, it is now subject to the 10% tariff.

Quick checklist

If it’s cans or beer, you’re under Section 232, not the new blanket tariff, and duties start April 4.

If it’s scrap (7602.00), brace for the minimum 10% tariff. While scrap was previously exempt under Section 232, it is now included in the scope of the new blanket tariff – confirmed by the US Department of Commerce to CRU.

If it’s from Canada or Mexico, check USMCA compliance now, because the tariff hits are real, and enforcement is tightening. (See Executive Order for full details)

This isn’t just another tariff tweak. It’s a full reset of how the US is approaching global trade. With aluminum staying under Section 232 and everything else getting pulled into this sweeping emergency order, the message is loud and clear: If you’re not manufacturing in the US, you’re going to pay.

Country-specific rules

Canada and Mexico

If goods don’t qualify under USMCA, they face a 25% duty. If they do qualify, they remain under preferential terms, though they must prove origin. And energy and potash from Canada equal a 10% tariff, unless exempt.

China, Hong Kong, Macau

Treated as one, all face full tariff rates to block transshipment.

Everyone else

Take a look at Annex I to see the lay of the land.

HTS coverage is broad and includes everything not already under another carve-out. (Annex II)