President Trump signed an order temporarily adjusting certain metals-related tariffs through December 31, 2027. The changes reduce tariffs on agricultural equipment such as combines and harvesters from 25% to 15%, expand the 15% tariff category to include mobile industrial equipment like bulldozers and forklifts from eligible trade-partner countries, and create a lower 10% tariff rate for imported capital equipment that contains at least 85% US-produced steel or aluminum.
The administration says these measures are intended to strengthen US national security, encourage investment in manufacturing, agriculture, and housing, and increase demand for American-made steel and aluminum. The White House argues that Section 232 tariffs have helped expand domestic steel, aluminum, and copper production, supported new industrial projects, and attracted significant investment in US manufacturing. The policy is presented as part of the broader “America First” strategy to protect key industries, create jobs, and rebuild the US industrial base.
