Aluminum Association President & CEO Charles Johnson has responded to President Donald Trump’s announcement of an increase to aluminium tariffs.

Trump signed an order doubling tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from 25% to 50%.

Johnson said: “Re-establishing a more level playing field for domestic producers is critical but a Section 232 tariff of 50% threatens to undermine the very industry the administration aims to support. The Aluminum Association, which represents the full industry supply chain and 70% of domestic production, urges the administration to reconsider today’s decision given the negative impact it will have on manufacturers.  

“Aluminium and steel are fundamentally different metals with distinct supply chains, market dynamics and strategic challenges. A one-size-fits-all approach to trade policy for these strategic materials risks unintended consequences for the U.S. economy and our national defence. 

“Critically, a 50% tariff rate could also raise prices for consumers, decrease demand and undermine the aluminium industry’s ability to serve the U.S. defence industrial base. Aluminium firms need a reliable supply of metal, protection from transshipped metal from non-market economies, and certainty in the tariff landscape. 

“The industry appreciates the Trump administration’s focus on bringing more aluminium production and jobs back to the United States and remains committed to supporting these goals. 

“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. aluminium industry.”