Over the Easter weekend, the United States Government announced updated criteria for aluminium imports to qualify for the 25% preferential tariff rate. Under the revised framework, eligibility will now depend on whether products are “smelted or most recently cast” in the UK.
The full proclamation can be accessed here:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/04/strengthening-actions-taken-to-adjust-imports-of-aluminum-steel-and-copper-into-the-united-states/
This marks a potentially significant shift in how UK aluminium exports to the US are assessed. For many businesses, this change may require a closer review of supply chain structures, particularly where material is sourced, processed, and cast across multiple regions. There is also the potential for commercial implications where existing contracts or export eligibility may be affected.
Alongside this, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly developments involving Iran, is beginning to place additional pressure on global aluminium supply chains. Early indications suggest increasing challenges in sourcing primary material, with wider impacts on pricing, availability, and lead times expected to follow.
ALFED is actively engaging with the Department for Business and Trade, including the Trade Defence team, to better understand the practical implications of the US announcement and to ensure the UK aluminium industry is effectively represented in any ongoing discussions with US counterparts.
We will also be using the upcoming Trade Committee meeting on 15 April to gather direct feedback from members and assess any immediate risks or required actions.
We encourage members to share any relevant insights, particularly in relation to export eligibility, supply chain impacts, or material availability. This input will be critical in shaping our engagement with Government and ensuring the sector’s position is clearly communicated.
For further discussion or to share feedback, please contact the ALFED team directly.
