All Trading Partners: 25% Steel & Aluminum Tariffs + Reciprocal Framework | Effective March 12 2025 (30-Day Countdown)
February 13, 2025
On Feb 10 2025, the U.S. reinstated 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports (effective Mar 12) and on Feb 13 unveiled a 10% baseline reciprocal tariff on all goods. Expect price hikes on cookware, furniture, power tools, and more—shop early to save.
You thought the tariff saga was over? Think again. Two new tariff waves are headed your way—first a 25% levy on steel and aluminum, then a matching “reciprocal” tariff blitz. Your online cart might shudder. But hey—Tariff Alert has your back. Let’s unpack what’s coming and which everyday goods could soon cost more.
Announcement Details
- Steel & Aluminum Tariffs: On February 10, 2025, President Trump issued Proclamations 10896 and 10895, reinstating and expanding Section 232 duties to 25% on steel and aluminum imports from all countries, effective March 12, 2025 The White HousePBS: Public Broadcasting Service.
- Reciprocal Tariff Framework: On February 13, 2025, invoking IEEPA, he announced a 10% baseline tariff on all imports—and individualized rates matching partner nations’ duties on U.S. exports—rolling out in the weeks ahead The White HouseAP News.
Import Breakdown & Values
Steel (2024 Imports ≈ 26.2 mmt)
- Canada: 6.885 mmt (23% of U.S. steel imports) American Iron and Steel Institute
- Mexico: 4.184 mmt (14%) American Iron and Steel Institute
- Brazil: 3.942 mmt (12%) American Iron and Steel Institute
- South Korea: 2.637 mmt (9%) American Iron and Steel Institute
- Japan: 1.189 mmt (4%) American Iron and Steel Institute
Aluminum (2023 Imports ≈ $27.4 billion)
- Canada: dominant supplier (≈ 52% share; $14.3 billion) World's Top Exports
- United Arab Emirates: $985 million (4%) World Population Review
- Bahrain, Qatar, Argentina: smaller but notable shares World Population Review
Consumer-Product Impacts (E-Commerce-Relevant)
- Cookware & Kitchenware: Imported stainless-steel pots, aluminum pans (Zwilling, Calphalon) could rise 5–10% as raw-metal costs climb Food & Wine.
- Outdoor Furniture & Fixtures: Steel-framed patio sets and aluminum outdoor lighting may see 8–12% mark-ups Investopedia.
- Hardware & Appliances: Power-tool housings, appliance panels (e.g., refrigerator doors) may cost 7–15% more Axios.
Insights & Predictions
- Supply-Chain Shifts: Retailers will scramble for non-tariffed sources (e.g., Middle East aluminum) but higher shipping premiums could offset savings Reuters.
- Pricing Strategies: Many e-tailers may absorb part of the cost initially, but expect mid-year price adjustments and clearance sales on current inventory BCG Global.
- Long-Term Effects: Without exclusions, derivative products (elevator parts, cookware, auto components) face duties—BCG estimates $22 billion in added import costs and up to $29 billion on derivatives BCG Global.
Keep an eye on our product picks below—shop smart, support the site, and maybe grab that cookware set now before metal costs bite even harder. You’re welcome.