U.S. Expands 50% Steel & Aluminum Tariffs to 407 More Products

Intermediate | August 29, 2025

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U.S. Expands Steel Aluminum Tariffs 407 Products

On August 19, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced a major expansion of its 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum. A total of 407 additional product categories—known as “derivatives” which include wind turbines, furniture, railcars, heavy machinery, compressors, and more—will now face hefty duties on the steel and aluminum parts they contain. This marks the latest stage as the U.S. expands steel aluminum tariffs 407 products to cover a broader range of industries. (Reuters)

What’s the Goal Behind This Expansion?

According to Under Secretary Jeffrey Kessler, the goal is to close loopholes and prevent tariff evasion. Products with even small amounts of steel or aluminum are now included, helping to support U.S. steel and aluminum producers. (BIS)

More Products, More Money

This move affects a wide variety of goods—from wind turbines and mobile cranes to furniture and railcars, even air conditioning parts and automotive components. It’s estimated that these product categories represent over $200 billion in imports, potentially raising the effective tariff burden by about 1 percentage point. The U.S. expands steel aluminum tariffs 407 products move could significantly reshape import costs for several industries. (Reuters)

Immediate Impact & Reactions

These tariffs took effect immediately. U.S. steel industry groups applauded the expansion. Critics, especially in sectors like construction and electric vehicles, warn that vital parts may become harder or more expensive to source, which could slow infrastructure and tech development. (WSJ)

Why It Matters to You

For English learners, this story shows how policy decisions can have ripple effects across industries—from energy and transportation to housing and appliances. It’s also a great way to practice everyday business phrases like “closing loopholes,” “tariff burden,” and “supply chain disruptions.”

Vocabulary List

Derivative (adjective) – based on or originating from something else.
Example: “The new tariffs apply to derivative steel and aluminum products.”
Loophole (noun) – a gap or omission in rules that allows people to avoid following them.
Example: “The tariffs aim to close export loopholes.”
Evasion (noun) – the act of avoiding something, especially through clever means.
Example: “Tariff evasion is harder under the new rules.”
Tariff (noun) – a tax on imports.
Example: “A 50% tariff now applies to many more goods.”
Duty (noun) – the tax imposed on imports or exports.
Example: “Heavy equipment will carry a new duty on its metal parts.”
Estimate (verb) – to make an approximate calculation.
Example: “Analysts estimate the tariff could raise import costs by 1%.”
Infrastructure (noun) – basic physical systems of a country, like roads, bridges, and power.
Example: “Tariffs may slow infrastructure projects if metals become expensive.”
Appliance (noun) – a device like a refrigerator or furnace used in homes or offices.
Example: “Air conditioners may be affected by new steel tariffs.”
Shipment (noun) – goods sent or received.
Example: “Importers scrambled to adjust shipments after the announcement.”
Evade (verb) – to escape or avoid something.
Example: “The policy is meant to stop companies from evading tariffs.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What new types of products now face the expanded tariffs?
What reason did the Commerce Department give for adding 407 more categories?
How might adding so many products affect businesses like manufacturers or builders?
What do critics worry about regarding essential parts and the EV industry?
Why is closing tariff loopholes important for trade policy?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Do you think high tariffs help or hurt domestic industries? Why?
Can you think of local businesses or products in Korea that might be affected?
How do tariffs influence global trade and supply chains?
What might be the impact on prices for everyday goods like appliances?
Should governments offer support to businesses affected by sudden tariff changes?

Related Idiom

“Closing the barn door after the horse has bolted.”
Meaning: Taking action only after damage or loss has already happened.
Example: “Raising tariffs now might feel like closing the barn door after the horse has bolted—too late for some importers.”

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This article was inspired by: Reuters, BIS, and The Wall Street Journal