US Enforces Expanded Steel and Aluminum Tariffs With ‘No Exceptions’

The United States officially implemented its expanded tariffs on steel and aluminum imports on Wednesday, enforcing a strict 25 percent duty with “no exceptions,” as promised by the White House.

The tariffs, introduced by President Donald Trump, are expected to drive up production costs across multiple industries, including home appliances, automobiles, and beverage cans—potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.

Since returning to office, Trump has imposed significant tariffs on major US trade partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. While some reductions were granted to neighboring countries, he has pledged additional levies to take effect from April 2.

Canada Among Hardest Hit by New Tariffs

According to Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY, the latest tariffs are expected to impact Canada the most, as it supplies approximately 50 percent of US aluminum imports and 20 percent of its steel imports.

Beyond Canada, key steel suppliers to the US include Brazil and Mexico, while aluminum imports come from nations such as the United Arab Emirates and South Korea.

The new duties build on previous tariffs, potentially raising rates on certain Canadian and Mexican steel and aluminum products to 50 percent unless they meet the requirements of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Rising Trade Tensions Amid Tariff Threats

Trade tensions between the US and Canada intensified as Trump threatened to double the tariff rate on Canadian steel and aluminum to 50 percent just a day before the new levies were set to take effect.

In response to earlier US tariffs, Ontario imposed an electricity surcharge on three American states, triggering a heated reaction from Trump. As both sides exchanged tariff threats, relations grew increasingly strained, with Trump pushing forward bold economic measures against Canada.

However, following negotiations, Ontario suspended the surcharge.

White House spokesman Kush Desai defended Trump’s actions, stating that the president “used the leverage of the American economy” to “deliver a win for the American people.”

Despite growing concerns over the impact of Trump’s trade policies and fears of a potential recession—factors contributing to recent declines in financial markets—Trump dismissed economic downturn worries, insisting that he does not anticipate a recession.