Oklahoma Smelter Marks First Step in Trump Aluminum Policy

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Just months after receiving a $500 million grant from the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, Century Aluminum announced plans to construct and operate a new aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, with a production capacity of 500,000 tons per year, including 20,000 tons of high-purity aluminum for defense applications. This smelter is the first major project to come out of the Trump administration's efforts to revive the U.S. aluminum industry through a combination of tariffs, recycling initiatives, and support for domestic energy production.

Why it matters

The U.S. aluminum industry has faced significant challenges in recent decades, with the closure of 18 of 23 aluminum plants since 1998. This new smelter represents a key step in the Trump administration's strategy to rebuild domestic aluminum production capacity, which is seen as critical for national security and economic independence.

The details

The new smelter in Inola will have a production capacity of 500,000 tons per year, including 20,000 tons of high-purity aluminum for defense applications. This comes after President Trump doubled tariffs on imported aluminum last May as part of his vision for reviving U.S. manufacturing. The administration's strategy also includes strengthening recycling infrastructure, securing reliable and affordable energy supplies, and providing tax incentives to spur private investment in the industry.

• In May 2025, President Trump doubled tariffs on imported aluminum as part of his efforts to revive the U.S. aluminum industry.
• In December 2025, the White House released a policy brief outlining a national strategy to prioritize, produce, and defend critical materials like aluminum.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Trump administration's policy brief calls for further investments in aluminum recycling infrastructure and support for domestic energy production to power the industry's growth.