•On June 3, 2025, Trump issued a proclamation raising steel and aluminum import duties from 25% to 50% on many steel articles and derivatives..
• Trump says the hike is about securing national security and fighting “cheap, excess steel,” but economists warn consumers will feel the squeeze fast.
• The UK is temporarily spared—still at 25%—as part of a May 8 trade deal, but that could change if conditions aren’t met by July 9.
• With steel already 16% more expensive since Trump took office, importers should brace for ripple effects across pricing, supply chains, and customer demand.