Việt Nam
English
Japan
Korea
China
U.S. Imposes Tariffs on Over 400 Imported Aluminum and Steel Products
On August 19, the U.S. Department of Commerce officially announced additional tariffs on 407 new products – including wind turbines, mobile cranes, bulldozers, motorcycles, and train cars. All of these items are categorized as “derivative products of aluminum and steel,” which have been under strict government monitoring.
Under the new regulation, components containing aluminum and steel will face a 50% tariff, while other parts will be subject to import duties depending on their origin. Notably, this policy takes effect immediately, with no transition period for businesses to prepare.
Large-Scale Impact
According to a report from Evercore ISI investment bank, the new tariffs could affect more than $200 billion worth of imports into the U.S., based on 2024 data.
The expanded list includes:
-
Automotive parts: exhaust systems, electrical steel for EVs.
-
Transport equipment: bus components, train cars.
-
Home appliances & refrigeration: air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, dryers…
Jeffrey Kessler – Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security – stated:
“This move aims to expand the scope of control, close loopholes in tariff evasion, and support the recovery of the U.S. steel and aluminum industry.”
Mixed Business Reactions
The policy is strongly supported by major U.S. steel corporations such as Cleveland Cliffs and Nucor, which have long urged tighter protection measures.
However, international automakers and energy companies expressed concerns, arguing that the U.S. does not yet have sufficient capacity to produce specialized steel required for EVs and wind turbines. Tesla notably submitted a petition to the U.S. Department of Commerce, requesting exemptions for certain critical steel products due to insufficient domestic supply.
The Roadmap of Steel & Aluminum Tariff Tightening
The U.S. began imposing tariffs on steel and aluminum imports in March 2024 at 25%. By June, President Donald Trump doubled the rates. With this latest move, the scope now extends beyond raw materials to derivative products and industrial components.
Currently, 25% of steel and 50% of aluminum consumed in the U.S. are imported. Canada and Mexico – the two largest suppliers – will be hit the hardest.
Logistics Perspective – Dolphin Sea Air
For import-export businesses, especially those heavily reliant on the U.S. market, these tariff hikes mean a significant surge in import and transportation costs. Smaller LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments or those with mixed-origin components will be more vulnerable, as tariffs will apply differently depending on origin.
In this context, reviewing product portfolios, optimizing transport routes, selecting the right shipping methods, and working closely with logistics partners has never been more crucial.
With years of expertise in international transport, LCL services, and integrated supply chain solutions, Dolphin Sea Air is committed to:
-
Providing analysis & consultation for optimized transport routes.
-
Minimizing cost risks arising from tariff fluctuations.
-
Ensuring delivery timelines and safeguarding business competitiveness in the U.S. market.
Dolphin Sea Air – Your trusted logistics partner to navigate global trade volatility with confidence.
- Email: info@dolphinseaair.com
- Hotline: +84 1900 986813
- Fanpage: Dolphin Sea Air Services Corp.
