President Trump has doubled tariffs on steel and aluminum, signaling a renewed commitment to his trade war. This move, announced at a Pennsylvania steel factory, intensifies trade tensions and draws criticism from international partners.

The tariff increase from 25% to 50% aims to bolster the American steel industry by making foreign steel more expensive. Trump stated the higher tariff would effectively prevent foreign competition.

The European Commission has strongly condemned the decision, warning of increased costs for consumers and businesses and threatening retaliatory measures on American products. The move also complicates ongoing trade negotiations between the EU and the US.

The tariffs are expected to significantly impact companies like Tata Steel, whose Dutch branch in IJmuiden derives 12% of its turnover from the US. The company anticipates the higher tariff will exacerbate its existing challenges, including high energy costs and competition from Asia.

While intended to protect American steel manufacturers, the tariffs have also increased steel prices within the US, impacting other industries like car manufacturing. Steel is already more expensive in the US than in Europe and China, and prices have risen further since Trump took office.

Despite a previous trade agreement, the US continues to impose a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from the United Kingdom.