Trump Plans Tariff Cuts on Steel, Aluminum Goods

Economists warn US consumers are suffering from current duties

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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US President Donald Trump plans to reduce certain tariffs on steel and aluminum products as officials acknowledge that American consumers are bearing the brunt of the existing duties, according to a report. The Trump administration is also reviewing the tariffed goods lists with the aim of exempting select items, halting list expansions, and pursuing more targeted national security investigations on specific products.

Why it matters

The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in 2025 on steel and aluminum imports have led to price spikes for American consumers on a range of products, from baking pans to beverage and food cans, contradicting the president's claims that foreign firms are footing the bill.

The details

The US Department of Commerce and US Trade Representative officials agree that consumers are suffering from the duties, citing the price increases. The Trump administration is now looking to cut certain tariffs, exempt select items from the tariffed goods lists, and pursue more targeted national security investigations on specific products rather than broad tariffs.

  • In April 2025, Trump imposed US customs duties on goods from 185 countries and territories.
  • In February 2025, Trump ordered 25% tariffs on aluminum imports, effective March 12, 2025 across all suppliers with no broad exemptions.
  • In June 2025, rates on aluminum and derivatives rose to 50%.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who imposed the steel and aluminum tariffs in 2025.

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What’s next

The Trump administration is reviewing the tariffed goods lists with the aim of exempting select items, halting list expansions, and pursuing more targeted national security investigations on specific products.

The takeaway

The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have had unintended consequences, leading to price increases for American consumers on a range of products. This has prompted the administration to reconsider its approach and explore ways to provide relief to consumers while still addressing national security concerns.