CBP Implements New 50% Section 232 Tariffs on Steel & Aluminum Derivatives — Effective August 18, 2025
August 18, 2025 — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a major update to Section 232 tariffs under U.S. trade law. Effective 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on August 18, 2025, a 50% ad valorem duty will now be applied to a broad expansion of steel and aluminum derivative products. This update reflects recent changes published in the Federal Register, which added 407 new HTS codes for products such as food packaging, machinery components, automotive parts, furniture, knives, and fitness equipment. THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
What Importers Need to Know
- Duty applicability: The 50% tariff applies to the steel and aluminum content of the newly included items, in addition to any existing duties under other trade regulations. ghy.com
- Filing obligations: For all entries on or after August 18, 2025, importers and brokers must use the correct Chapter 99 subheading in addition to the usual HTS classification. Failure to include this may result in entry rejection or delays.
Business Advisory for Ongoing Shipments
If your inbound shipments include newly added 232 tariff codes — and are composed of steel or aluminum — please be advised that these may now be subject to an additional 50% duty. We are closely monitoring updates from CBP and the Commerce Department, and will promptly inform clients of any further developments.
Clearance Approach for Non-Steel/Aluminum Goods
For products where the material is not steel or aluminum, but the HTS code overlaps with the updated tariff list, we will proceed with clearance under the non-metal classification. However, CBP may request additional documentation (e.g., photographs, product descriptions, manufacturer data) to substantiate the material composition. Your cooperation in supplying these materials, if requested, is greatly appreciated.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
| Timeframe | Event |
|---|---|
| Effective | 12:01 a.m. EDT, August 18, 2025 — Revised 50% Section 232 tariffs begin |
| Scope | Now includes 407 new derivative product codes (e.g., packaging, auto parts, furniture, fitness equipment) |
| Import Process | Must use correct Chapter 99 HTS codes; Non-metal products cleared under non-metal rulings unless CBP requests proof |
We remain committed to offering clear guidance and proactive communication throughout this evolving tariff landscape. Should you have questions or require assistance with risk mitigation strategies for affected shipments, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
