European Aluminium voices deep concern about US tariffs on aluminium

European Aluminium, the voice of the entire European aluminium value chain, expresses deep concern over the recent announcement from the U.S. regarding the imposition of a 25 per cent tariff on all aluminium imports. This move threatens to disrupt transatlantic trade relations between two strong economic partners.

"The EU and the U.S. have developed robust, interconnected supply chains through years of trade and investment, with many of our members operating on both sides of the Atlantic. Tariffs will drive up costs in the U.S. and distort trade flows all over the world. Ultimately, they will disrupt the efficiency and integration of global markets at a time when stability is most needed," said Paul Voss, Director General of European Aluminium.

The EU exported around 309,000 tonnes worth €2.4 billion exported from January to November 2024. The EU’s main aluminium exports are aluminium sheets (43%), aluminium foil (19%), and aluminium bars/rods (10%).

Transatlantic trade plays a vital role in supporting manufacturers and maintaining supply chain resilience, especially for high value-added aluminium products. Any trade restrictions between these long-standing allies risk disrupting the supply chain, causing harm to aluminium producers on both sides of the Atlantic.

European Aluminium urges the European Commission to engage in immediate dialogue with U.S. counterparts to seek a resolution that protects the interests of the European aluminium industry. Trade measures should be targeted at addressing unfair competition from non-market economies and the circumvention of existing trade rules rather than imposing tariffs on trusted partners. A coordinated approach is essential to ensure that enforcement mechanisms address the root causes of market distortions without negatively impacting responsible producers in the U.S. and the EU.

European Aluminium also warns of a real risk that these broad-based tariffs could disrupt aluminium trade flows and create a surge in aluminium imports to the EU, flooding the market and further harming the competitiveness of the European aluminium industry.

"We're ready to work with all stakeholders to find a constructive path forward that supports fair trade practices and minimises harm to our industry and supply chains. The last thing anyone needs right now is more uncertainty and disruption, especially when cooperation has consistently proven to benefit both Europe and the U.S.," Voss added.