As global trade policies continue to shift, importers and manufacturers must stay informed and agile. At Fictiv, we\u2019re dedicated to keeping you informed, helping you optimize your supply chain and maximize your bottom line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 allows the U.S. Government to impose tariffs on imports that are deemed a threat to national security. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On March 12, 2025, the U.S. Government enacted a 25% tariff on all<\/strong> aluminum and steel shipments<\/strong> from all countries<\/strong> under this provision, even those with trade agreements. This rate was subsequently doubled to 50% on June 3, 2025, for most countries. Most recently, on April 6, 2026<\/strong>, the tariff structure was overhauled to apply duties to the full customs value<\/strong> of covered metal goods\u2014rather than just the metal content\u2014with rate tiers of 50% on primary steel and aluminum articles, 25% on certain derivatives, and a 15% transitional rate on metal-intensive industrial equipment through December 31, 2027. Notably, products composed of 15% or less steel or aluminum are no longer subject to Section 232 tariffs under this new structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As of July 7, 2025, prototypes<\/strong> of all types\u2014including those containing aluminum or steel\u2014are exempt from tariffs under restored Chapter 98 duty exemptions. Prototypes made with non-metal materials have remained duty-free throughout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n