Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI), the national trade association for the US metal and composite can manufacturing industry, states that recent tariffs and trade imposed by the US president are the main barrier for the can-making industry. 

Pearce Crosland, Senior Director of Government of Reations and Regulatory Affairs at the CMI, explained that the US depends heavily on imported raw materials, especially aluminium for beverage cans and steel for food cans. Many of these materials are imported from close trading partners such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

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Crosland explains that domestic production capacity has declined significantly over the past eight years, which he connects to current trade policies. He notes that the United States now has only three operating steel tinplate production lines (previously there were twelve), which represents a substantial reduction in domestic manufacturing capability. 

Consumers, manufacturers, and members of the Can Manufacturers Institute are calling on the Trump administration to respond quickly. They are seeking tariff relief to reduce food prices and strengthen national food security. He further adds by saying, “We're trying to work with the Trump administration right now to provide targeted tariff relief on such products.”

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The Can Manufacturers Institute is increasing its presence on Capitol Hill and in federal agencies to raise awareness of industry challenges. Crosland points to current legislation, such as the STEWARD Act, which would require the Environmental Protection Agency to improve data collection and reporting on recycling and composting programs. The CIRCLE Act, which proposes tax credits to support investments in recycling infrastructure, was also mentioned.

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Metal cans are a strong example of the circular economy. Data from CMI shows that in the US, the recycling rate is 43 per cent for aluminium beverage cans and 44 per cent for steel cans, while in the EU, the UK, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland achieved the rate of 76 per cent. The Institute also works with other packaging trade groups through the “We Recycle Working Group” to promote coordinated action on recycling policy.

Crosland calls for relatively small but targeted investments in waste management, suggests improving collection systems, modernising recycling infrastructure, and developing carefully designed recycling refund programs. He argues that refund programs will produce long-term benefits, especially over the next three to five years, as the US works to match global recycling performance.

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CMI, representing companies that produce over 81 per cent of domestic metal cans, generate over USD 13 billion in economic activity. Crosland adds that the institute operates at the intersection of manufacturing, sustainability, agriculture, workforce development, and education. This creates important opportunities for collaboration, and the organisation remains focused on supporting its members and working with other industry associations.