Section 232 tariffs expand as new metals and pharmaceutical measures take effect

The administration’s latest expansion of Section 232 tariffs introduces higher duty rates, broader product coverage and new country-specific distinctions that will directly affect import costs and sourcing decisions. At the same time, a separate tariff framework targeting pharmaceutical products signals a more coordinated approach linking trade policy with domestic manufacturing and pricing objectives.

The following summary outlines the key provisions of these measures and their applicability across industries.

Expansion of Section 232 tariffs on metals

Section 232 tariffs were first introduced in 2018 on steel and aluminum imports as part of a national security initiative, establishing baseline duties that have since been modified through quotas, exclusions and country-specific agreements. The administration’s latest action builds on this framework by expanding both the scope and rate structure of these measures.

On April 2, 2026, the President issued a proclamation expanding Section 232 tariffs to include copper and a broader range of derivative products, while increasing duty rates and introducing more detailed distinctions based on product composition and country of origin.

Under the updated measures, additional duties ranging from 10% to 50% will apply to the full customs value of certain imports of steel, aluminum, copper articles and their derivatives from all countries, effective April 6, 2026. This represents a significant expansion of existing Section 232 tariff measures.

Key provisions include:

• Articles made entirely or almost entirely of aluminum, steel or copper (for example, steel coils or aluminum sheets) will be subject to a 50% tariff on the full customs value.
• Articles of aluminum or steel that are products of the United Kingdom, with at least 95% of the aluminum melted or cast in the United Kingdom and 95% of the steel melted and poured in the United Kingdom, will be subject to a 25% tariff on their full value.
• Derivative articles substantially made of steel, aluminum or copper will be subject to a flat 25% tariff on their full customs value.
• Derivative aluminum or steel articles that are products of the United Kingdom, with at least 95% of the aluminum melted or cast in the United Kingdom and 95% of the steel melted and poured in the United Kingdom, will be subject to a 15% tariff on their full value.