WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Coalition for a Prosperous America (CPA) strongly supports President Trump’s decision on Friday to double U.S. aluminum and steel tariffs from 25% to 50%. The action underscores the administration’s commitment to protecting the home market for steel and aluminum mills, which is critical to both economic resilience and national security. Earlier this year, CPA applauded President Trump’s action to enforce a global 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, pursuant to Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.
“We strongly support President Trump’s decision to raise steel and aluminum tariffs to 50%, reaffirming mills’ and fabricators’ critical role in America’s economic and national security,” said CPA Chairman Zach Mottl. “Going further, to solidify protection for our domestic industry, we must recognize that percentage-based tariffs applied against foreign invoices are prone to customs fraud, as importers routinely undervalue invoices. It is essential that we transition towards product-specific tariffs assessed against weight or other units of volume that facilitate proper tariff collection.”
CPA has consistently advocated for tariff protection to preserve the domestic market for those who make and grow things in America, and rely on American wages. Product-specific tariffs—based on metrics such as weight or volume—would further protect the industry by preventing importers from avoiding tariff costs through undervalued foreign invoices. Such a measure is essential for ensuring fair competition and preserving the integrity and strength of America’s domestic steel production capabilities.
“We commend President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, and the Bureau of Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce for their steadfast commitment and diligent work in implementing these essential tariffs,” said Jon Toomey, President of CPA. “Their dedication ensures that America’s home market is protected and strengthened against predatory foreign competition, preserving critical jobs and revitalizing our domestic manufacturing base.”
In a recent piece in The American Conservative, CPA Trade Counsel Charles Benoit outlined how President Trump’s tariffs represent more than just trade policy—they mark a return to America’s longstanding tradition of using tariffs strategically for national economic growth and security. This shift toward specific tariffs based on weight or volume addresses historical concerns raised by American statesmen, like Henry Clay, regarding the ease of tariff avoidance under percentage-based (ad valorem) systems. The administration’s “Inclusion Process” reintroduces a transparent, democratic approach, allowing U.S. producers to petition for protective measures—restoring tariff policy decision-making to the American people through their elected representatives.
The President’s tariff increase comes at a critical moment, reflecting a clear understanding of the ongoing threats faced by the U.S. aluminum and steel industry, particularly from heavily subsidized foreign competitors.
CPA’s economic analysis demonstrates that President Trump’s steel tariffs effectively boosted domestic production and safeguarded thousands of American manufacturing jobs. However, recent CPA reports highlight the surge in steel imports from around the world and the critical need to maintain robust tariff enforcement to preserve U.S. industrial capacity.
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