US President Donald Trump has implemented a 25% tax on steel and aluminium imports, directly impacting the UK and risking jobs in those sectors. UK officials, including Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, expressed disappointment over the tariffs and opted for a pragmatic strategy rather than retaliation. UK Steel noted that exports to the US may be underestimated, while trade bodies emphasized the adverse timing of these tariffs given the UK steel industry's existing challenges. The Aluminium Federation highlighted the immediate effects on UK aluminium producers, as reduced US orders begin to emerge.
It's disappointing the US has today imposed global tariffs on steel and aluminium. We are focused on a pragmatic approach and are rapidly negotiating a wider economic agreement with the US to eliminate additional tariffs and to benefit UK businesses and our economy.
President Trump must surely recognise that the UK is an ally, not a foe. Our steel sector is not a threat to the US but a partner to key customers, sharing the same values and objectives in addressing global overcapacity and tackling unfair trade.
These tariffs couldn't come at a worse time for the UK steel industry, as we battle with high energy costs and subdued demand at home, against an oversupplied and increasingly protectionist global landscape.
The enforcement of US tariffs today is a critical moment for the UK aluminium industry. While the direct impacts are already being felt through reduced US orders and scrap export pressures.
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