The United States government officially announced an adjustment to aluminum imports this Tuesday, under the premise that the import of this material threatens national security. This measure is part of the executive orders signed by President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of 25 percent on all steel and aluminum imports starting in March of this year.
In the document published in the U.S. Federal Register, the U.S. government accuses Mexico of using primary aluminum from China and Russia to produce derived aluminum products, which it considers an unfair practice. It highlights that, despite previously imposed tariffs, aluminum imports from Mexico have continued to increase beyond historical volumes.
A significant increase in Chinese investment in Mexico is alleged, driven by government subsidies and the ability to exploit loopholes in U.S. trade policy. This has caused harm to domestic aluminum producers, leading to production suspensions and facility closures.
Foreign producers have moved to third countries, such as Mexico, to avoid tariffs. Therefore, there is a need for additional adjustments to tariffs on aluminum to allow U.S. producers to restart production.
The tariffs on steel and aluminum will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on March 12, 2025, according to the executive order. The measure will apply to imports of aluminum products and derived products from Argentina, Australia, Canada, Mexico, European Union countries, and the United Kingdom.
Mexico's Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard, mentioned that the country will initiate consultations with the U.S. government to present additional data. It seeks to establish communication with U.S. authorities to present information that contradicts the allegations mentioned in the government document.
It is important to highlight that these trade measures generate tensions between the two countries and may have a significant impact on international trade.
