Trump Administration Cuts Aluminum Import Tariffs to 25% for New U.S. Smelters

The Trump administration announced on Monday (July 20) an incentive program offering reduced import aluminum tariffs for companies that build, expand, or renovate aluminum smelting facilities in the United States. Upon government approval, the tariff rate will drop from the current 50% to approximately 25%.

The measure aims to address long-standing supply constraints. The U.S. operates only four active aluminum smelters today, down from 23 in 2000, and relies heavily on imports from Canada and the Middle East to meet domestic demand used in automotive, appliances, and beverage containers.