US Suddenly Imposes 50% Tariffs on $320B Steel/Aluminum Imports, Effective Immediately
Publish Time: 2025-08-21 Origin: Site
August 19, 2025 (Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) abruptly expanded tariffs to 407 steel and aluminum derivative products, effective 12:01 AM ET on August 18. The new 50% duties catch many importers off guard, potentially impacting $320 billion in annual imports.
Key Details:
? Immediate Effect:
Tariffs applied retroactively to goods in transit.
Covered products range from wind turbines, cranes, rail vehicles to deodorants and strollers—anything "shiny, metallic, or vaguely steel/aluminum-related," per Kuehne+Nagel’s customs VP.
? Importers’ Dilemma:
Pay 50% tariffs or divert shipments (incurring losses).
No grace period—Friday notice, Monday enforcement.
? Government Justification:
Deputy Commerce Secretary Kessler claims this "plugs tariff loopholes" and revives U.S. steel/aluminum industries.
? Economic Warnings:
Michigan State University’s Jason Miller estimates $320B in imports hit (vs. prior $190B projection).
Risks cost-push inflation, echoing July’s PPI surge.
Impacted Industries:
Heavy Machinery: Cranes, compressors, turbines
Industrial Goods: Rail parts, pumps
Consumer Products: Strollers, spray cans
Action Steps for Importers:
? Verify HS codes for steel/aluminum links.
? Reroute non-discharged cargo if cost-effective.
? Expect price hikes and supply chain delays.