Section 232 Aluminum: Importer Guide

Section 232 aluminum imposes 10% ad valorem on covered aluminum articles since 2018. Some configurations carry 25% rate for specific origins. Derivatives expansion brought downstream fabricated aluminum products into scope. Exclusion process exists for products with no domestic equivalent.

This guide covers Section 232 Aluminum: Importer Guide. Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 authorizes tariffs on imports based on national security findings.

For SMB importers, Section 232 exposure depends on HS classification, country of origin, and current effective rate (which has varied through administrative determinations).

Scope of Section 232 aluminum

Aluminum mill products (HTS Chapter 76) plus specific aluminum articles. Some country-specific arrangements at higher rates.

Rate variations by origin

10% baseline; 25% on Russian-origin aluminum (additional sanctions). EU, UK, and others have specific arrangements.

Derivatives expansion

Downstream fabricated aluminum – bottling, foil, certain auto parts – brought into scope through 2025 derivatives expansion.

Exclusion process and pricing

Product-specific exclusions through Commerce. Documentation must support no-U.S.-equivalent claim.

Frequently asked questions

Does Section 232 still apply in 2026?

Yes. Section 232 has no statutory expiration. Steel and aluminum since 2018; copper added 2026; pharma effective July 31, 2026. MedTech and semiconductor investigations in flight.

Does Section 232 stack with Section 122?

Generally no. Section 232-covered goods pay Section 232 in lieu of Section 122. Edge cases exist where finished goods contain Section 232 inputs but are not themselves covered.

Can I file for a Section 232 exclusion?

Specific exclusion processes have applied historically (especially for steel and aluminum). Current exclusion windows vary; we track active processes.

How does Section 232 derivative scope work?

Derivatives expansion brings downstream products into scope at the HTS subheading level. Component-level analysis identifies actual coverage for finished goods.

How do you help with Section 232 work?

Scope analysis, supplier shift modeling, product petition filings, and exclusion request support. Engagements typically $5,000-$15,000 fixed-fee.