The United States has raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50%, effective June 4. According to a proclamation published on the White House website, the move is aimed at strengthening national security by providing additional support to domestic metal industries.

The administration argues that while existing tariffs have helped stabilize prices, they have not sufficiently boosted production capacity utilization to ensure the long-term health of the sector. The higher duties are intended to help maintain a robust domestic steel and aluminum industry and address concerns over global oversupply.

Tariffs on metals imported from the UK will remain at 25% until at least July 9, with potential adjustments based on ongoing trade discussions. The increased duties will particularly impact Canada and Mexico, two of the US’s closest trading partners.

Canada is actively negotiating to reduce or remove the tariffs, while Mexico is preparing to formally request an exemption. Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard has stated that alternative strategies are in place if the exemption request is denied.

Industry groups in the US have welcomed the tariff hike, citing the need to counter excessive global steel production, notably from China. However, European and Canadian steel producers warn of significant economic consequences.