Overview

• The president announced on May 30 that duties on imported steel and aluminium will rise from 25% to 50%, taking effect June 4, 2025.
• He framed the increase as necessary to protect U.S. steelmakers and curb reliance on foreign suppliers like China.
• The European Union has vowed counter-tariffs and India has filed a formal WTO notice signaling retaliatory duties.
• A federal appeals court temporarily stayed a lower court ruling that found his use of emergency powers unlawful, keeping the tariffs in place.
• Analysts warn the hike could drive U.S. steel prices above $1,180 per tonne, raising costs for automotive, construction and other steel-dependent sectors.