Section 232 Country Exemptions and Quota Arrangements

Section 232 steel and aluminum have varied country-specific arrangements over time. Some countries (Australia) received outright exemptions; others (EU, UK, Japan, Korea, Brazil) negotiated tariff-rate quotas. Specific arrangements have changed multiple times through administrative actions.

This guide covers Section 232 Country Exemptions and Quota Arrangements. 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).

Australia exemption

Australia received a country-wide exemption for steel and aluminum from Section 232 since the original 2018 proclamation.

EU and UK arrangements

EU and UK have negotiated tariff-rate quotas – annual quantities at 0% tariff, beyond which the full 25% applies. Quota allocations and structures have changed over time.

Asian arrangements (Japan, Korea)

Japan and Korea have varied quota and tariff arrangements. Specific status requires periodic verification.

Brazil and Argentina

Brazil and Argentina have had quota arrangements. Specific allocations vary annually.

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.