PITTSBURGH, PA | May 31, 2025 — President Donald Trump has announced plans to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum to 50%, a move aimed at reinforcing the domestic metal industry and safeguarding American jobs. Speaking to a group of steelworkers at U.S. Steel’s Mon Valley Works–Irvin Plant in Pennsylvania, Trump underscored his administration’s commitment to reviving American manufacturing and defending the nation's industrial base from foreign competition.
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| U.S. President Donald Trump signs a series of executive orders including 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum,(Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) |
“We’re doubling tariffs to ensure the U.S. steel industry is stronger than ever,” Trump said. “This is about putting American steel back into the spine of our nation.”
Later on Truth Social, Trump confirmed that the increased tariffs on both steel and aluminum would officially take effect Wednesday.
Foreign Investment Sparks Controversy Amid National Security Concerns
The president also addressed a developing partnership between U.S. Steel and Japan’s Nippon Steel, indicating that a final agreement is still pending approval.
“I have not signed off yet, but it’s a major investment and a strong commitment,” Trump told reporters after returning to Washington.
Initially opposed to Nippon Steel’s acquisition of U.S. Steel, Trump has now signaled support for a restructured deal that would preserve U.S. oversight and ownership. Although the exact terms remain unclear, sources indicate the agreement includes a partial stake for Nippon, billions in upgrades to U.S. steel plants, and job security guarantees.
Steel Tariffs and Prices: What’s at Stake
Trump’s proposed tariff hike is a dramatic shift, raising concerns that it could drive up the cost of steel — a critical material for housing, auto manufacturing, infrastructure, and defense. According to the U.S. Commerce Department, domestic steel prices currently sit at $984 per metric ton, significantly higher than European ($690) and Chinese ($392) prices.
Since Trump returned to office in January 2025, steel prices have risen 16%, reflecting renewed emphasis on domestic production. The U.S. now manufactures roughly three times as much steel as it imports, with major import partners including Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and South Korea.
Mixed Reactions from Steelworkers and Lawmakers
While some union leaders remain cautious about foreign ownership of a strategic U.S. company, others see potential in the proposed Nippon partnership. David McCall, President of the United Steelworkers union, expressed skepticism.
“Our main concern is how this deal might impact national security, our members, and our communities,” McCall said in a statement.
Yet on the ground in Pittsburgh, some workers welcomed the investment. Clifford Hammonds, a line worker at the Mon Valley facility, said the capital infusion could help rebuild aging infrastructure.
“The plant is falling apart. We need investment to replace old machinery and get production back up,” Hammonds stated.
Trump Touts Economic Revival, Manufacturing Jobs in Battleground States
Trump’s speech emphasized a broader economic vision centered on self-reliance, domestic production, and American energy independence — core themes of his second-term agenda.
“We’ll produce our own steel, unleash our own energy, and control our own destiny,” Trump said to a cheering crowd. “And once again, Pennsylvania steel will become the backbone of America.”
The president has also leaned into blue-collar support as he eyes the 2026 midterms and prepares for challenges in key swing states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio, all heavily reliant on the industrial sector.
Nippon Steel's Investment Could Reach $14 Billion
In recent days, officials have started promoting an expanded $14 billion investment by Nippon Steel, in addition to its initial $14.9 billion acquisition bid. Plans reportedly include building a new electric arc furnace steel mill in the U.S., a move intended to modernize production and reduce emissions.
Although full details have not been released, lawmakers briefed on the matter say the deal will ensure U.S. Steel remains headquartered in Pittsburgh, overseen by a mostly American board and safeguarded by a “golden share” giving the U.S. government veto authority.
Local Union Leaders Offer Conditional Support
Among those standing alongside Trump was Jason Zugai, vice president of the local United Steelworkers chapter at the Irvin Plant, who voiced support for the deal.
“I knew you wouldn’t let us down,” Zugai told Trump. “This $14 billion investment has the potential to transform our lives and our community.”
Zugai, whose father lost a job in the steel industry decades ago, said he has personally lobbied for the agreement, fearing the plant might otherwise be shut down.
📌 Key Takeaways:
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Tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will rise to 50% starting Wednesday.
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U.S. Steel-Nippon Steel deal pending final approval, expected to involve major investments and partial foreign ownership with U.S. control.
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Steel prices in the U.S. remain higher than global averages, but domestic production is strong.
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Trump is positioning American manufacturing as a central pillar of his administration’s economic strategy.
