Trump Signs Proclamation to Lower Aluminum Tariffs for Onshoring

Donald Trump signed a proclamation on July 20, 2026, adjusting tariffs on aluminum imports to incentivize domestic production. The president stated that current U.S. primary aluminum production is insufficient to meet demand and is critical to the national economy and defense industrial base.

Under the directive, the United States Department of Commerce will establish an incentive program for companies that invest in building, expanding, or refurbishing aluminum smelters within the United States. Companies with approved onshoring plans will be eligible to import primary aluminum at a reduced tariff rate, which is set at half of the standard Section 232 rate.

This action utilizes the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, providing the president authority to adjust imports that threaten national security.