Trump moves to reimpose 25% tariffs on steel & aluminum imports from all countries, ending exemptions for allies. Key difference from similar moves on Canada/Mexico/China: using Section 232 authority vs IEEPA. 1/
Comments
Log in with your Bluesky account to leave a comment
Rather than start new 232 investigation (which takes months), administration argues exemptions/alternatives undermined original 2018 national security findings. Uses Commerce monitoring data to show threat has increased. 2/
Key evidence: Steel imports hit 30% of US consumption in 2024, matching 2018 crisis levels. Exempted countries now 82% of imports, up from 74% in 2018. Global excess capacity projected at 630M metric tons by 2026. 3/
Admin argues that Commerce Secretary didn't need new formal investigation - instead provided updated trade flow data showing exemptions created loopholes. China's steel exports topped 114M metric tons through Nov 2024, forcing redirected exports to US (via third countries). 4/
Different approach from recent IEEPA tariffs on Canada/Mexico/China. Here, staying within 232 framework but using existing findings + monitoring data avoids lengthy agency process while potentially strengthening legal position over IEEPA approach. Effective March 12. 5/5
Comments