New 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum to start March 4 as Trump reworks the US trade landscape

Published On Feb 10, 2025, 6:51 PM

President Trump has announced new tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminum imported into the U.S., effective March 4. This decision marks a significant shift in the U.S. trade policy, reinstating higher duties across all countries without exceptions. While the tariffs aim to boost domestic production, experts caution that they may lead to job losses in industries that rely on steel and aluminum, potentially negating benefits in the metal sectors. The announcement comes alongside ongoing trade tensions with countries like China, Canada, and Mexico, with reciprocal tariffs expected to follow. Trump has indicated an openness to potential exemptions for nations like Australia that hold trade surpluses, but significant backlash from various trade groups and economic experts has already emerged, projecting mixed outcomes for the overall economy.

Stock Forecasts

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Positive

The new tariffs are poised to have a mixed effect on steel production companies and related sectors. While producers like U.S. Steel Corp may benefit from higher prices, companies relying on steel and aluminum for production could see increased costs and squeezed profit margins. Investors should be cautious as retaliatory tariffs could also dampen trade volumes.

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Negative

Investment in sectors relying on steel and aluminum, such as construction and automotive industries, could face a downturn due to increased costs unless they can pass those costs onto consumers. Companies in this space may see reduced margins and lower stock performance, making them less attractive for short-term investments.

SPY

Positive

Broadly speaking, the market volatility stemming from these trade decisions may create opportunities in sectors less affected by these tariffs. Investors might consider diversifying into ETFs that focus on large-cap U.S. equities, which might weather the trade storm better than individual stocks directly affected by tariff implementation.

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(Bloomberg) -- Supply Lines is a daily newsletter that tracks global trade. Sign up here.Most Read from BloombergNice Airport, If You Can Get to It: No Subway, No Highway, No BridgeSin puente y sin metro: el nuevo aeropuerto de Lima es una debacleThe Forgotten French Architect Who Rebuilt MarseilleIn New Orleans, an Aging Dome Tries to Stay SuperHow London’s Taxi Drivers Navigate the City Without GPSPresident Donald Trump ordered a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, escalating his efforts

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President Donald Trump's plan to impose 25% tariffs on imported aluminum and steel could in turn raise costs for American manufacturers that are passed on to consumers.