Trump Doubles Down on Tariffs: Steel and Aluminum Duties Soar to 50%, UK Exempt

In a bold move aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing, President Donald Trump has announced a sharp increase in tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, hiking them from 25% to 50%. The announcement came during a rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday evening, where Trump framed the measure as a “defense mechanism” to shield American workers from what he described as “foreign cheating.”

“America will not be the dumping ground of the world,” Trump declared. “This is about protecting the dignity of our workers and the integrity of our economy.”

The United Kingdom, which recently secured a bilateral trade accord with the U.S., has been granted a full exemption from the new tariffs—a move praised by British officials and industry leaders.

Also Read: Explosive Memo Claims Elon Musk Helped U.S. Military Launch Weaponized Starlink Satellites

The White House stated the measure will take effect immediately, drawing swift reactions from global trading partners. European and Asian leaders have expressed concerns that the hike could reignite global trade tensions and destabilize key supply chains.

U.S. steelmakers, however, applauded the decision. Shares in major domestic producers like U.S. Steel and Nucor surged in after-hours trading.

Also Read: India Set to Attract Massive Foreign Investment in 2025, Says BofA Securities

Trade analysts are divided over the long-term effects of the tariff increase. Some believe it will strengthen domestic industry; others warn of retaliatory measures and price hikes across construction, manufacturing, and even consumer goods.

As of now, the administration has not ruled out expanding the tariffs to other metals or sectors.

Follow us on X @Dobblog1