ALFED would like to share a timely update on recent developments concerning potential new US tariffs, which have been widely reported over the weekend, and to outline how we are engaging with government to understand the potential implications for the UK aluminium sector.
Recent US Tariff Announcements
Over the weekend, the US President publicly indicated an intention to impose tariffs on goods from the UK and a number of European nations. These comments are linked to a wider geopolitical dispute involving Greenland and Denmark. Media reports suggest that tariffs of up to 10% could be introduced from 1 February, with the possibility of escalation to 25% later in the year.
While these statements have understandably caused concern across a range of industrial sectors, it is important to note that no new tariffs have been formally implemented at this stage, and the situation remains fluid.
UK Government Position
The UK Government has responded firmly but calmly. Senior ministers, including the Prime Minister, have been clear that the UK’s position on Greenland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable and that this issue will be addressed through diplomatic channels rather than escalation.
Government messaging to date has focused on de-escalation and ongoing engagement with US counterparts, with officials closely monitoring developments as they evolve.
Relevance for the Aluminium Sector
These developments are of particular relevance to the aluminium sector. UK aluminium exports to the US are already subject to 25% tariffs, and any additional measures, or prolonged uncertainty, risk compounding existing competitiveness and commercial challenges across the aluminium value chain, including producers, processors, recyclers, and exporters.
ALFED Engagement with Government
Following the weekend’s developments, ALFED CEO Nadine Bloxsome has been in direct contact with the Department for Business and Trade, including a discussion with Chris McDonald MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Industry).
The Minister emphasised that the Government is adopting a calm and measured approach, consistent with how previous tariff-related announcements have been handled. Engagement with US counterparts is ongoing, and officials are closely monitoring the situation.
Importantly, DBT has asked that ALFED continues to feed back direct intelligence from the aluminium sector, including:
- Impacts on exports and customer relationships
- Supply chain disruption or uncertainty
- Competitiveness pressures
- Investment or procurement decision delays
Officials have confirmed that they will keep ALFED informed as discussions progress and that sector-specific insight is valued in shaping government engagement with the US administration.
ALFED Statement
As ALFED CEO Nadine Bloxsome comments:
“The aluminium sector is already operating under significant tariff exposure to the US, so any further escalation is understandably concerning for our members. We are in direct dialogue with the Minister for Industry and the Department for Business and Trade to ensure the realities facing aluminium producers, recyclers, and processors are fully understood. We will continue to press for clarity, proportionate responses, and strong diplomatic engagement, and I would encourage members to share any specific concerns so we can feed these directly into government.”
Next Steps
At present, there are no immediate changes to trading arrangements. However, ALFED recognises that uncertainty alone can be disruptive for businesses. We will therefore continue to work closely with DBT to ensure that the aluminium sector’s position is clearly understood and that members’ concerns are represented at the appropriate levels of government.
We will keep members informed as the situation develops. In the meantime, if you have questions or would like to flag specific impacts on your business, please contact the ALFED team directly.
