Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Increases Section 232 Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum

6/3/2025

Fact Sheets

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Action Summary

Increased Tariff Rates: President Trump raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50%, effective June 4, 2025, specifically targeting the steel and aluminum content of products.
UK Import Exception: Tariffs on imports from the United Kingdom remain at 25%, with a review for possible changes or quotas starting July 9, 2025, contingent on the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal.
National Security Rationale: Action taken under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to protect the U.S. steel and aluminum industries from unfair global dumping and excessive foreign capacity that threaten national security.
Enforcement Measures: Implementation of strict reporting requirements for steel and aluminum content with penalties, including fines or loss of import rights, for falsified declarations.
Economic and Domestic Impact: Efforts aim to restore fairness, boost domestic production and job growth, and encourage reshoring and investment in the U.S. metals industry, as supported by several economic studies and previous tariff successes.

Risks & Considerations

The increase in tariffs on steel and aluminum could lead to higher costs for industries reliant on these materials, potentially affecting Vanderbilt University’s construction and maintenance projects if they involve significant use of steel and aluminum.
There is a risk of retaliatory tariffs from other countries, which could impact the global supply chain and affect research collaborations or partnerships that Vanderbilt University has with international institutions.
The focus on national security and domestic production may lead to shifts in federal funding priorities, potentially affecting grants and research funding available to the university, especially in areas related to international trade and economics.
Vanderbilt University may need to consider the implications of these tariffs on its international students and faculty, particularly those from countries affected by the tariffs, as it could influence their decision to study or work in the United States.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s Engineering and Construction Management Programs may need to adjust their curricula to address the economic and strategic implications of increased tariffs on materials like steel and aluminum.
The Owen Graduate School of Management could see increased demand for expertise in international trade and economic policy, presenting opportunities for research and collaboration with industry partners.
Vanderbilt’s Office of International Affairs might need to provide additional support and resources to international students and faculty affected by changes in trade policies and potential retaliatory measures.
The Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) could play a crucial role in analyzing the impact of these tariffs on global trade dynamics and advising on strategic responses.

Financial Impact

The increased tariffs could lead to higher costs for materials, potentially impacting the university’s budget for infrastructure projects and necessitating adjustments in financial planning.
Vanderbilt University might experience changes in its funding opportunities, particularly if federal discretionary grants prioritize domestic production and national security. This could necessitate adjustments in grant application strategies and partnerships.
There may be increased opportunities for Vanderbilt to secure funding for research and development in areas related to trade policy, economic strategy, and national security, particularly through collaborations with federal agencies.
The potential for retaliatory tariffs and shifts in global trade dynamics could affect the university’s international partnerships and collaborations, potentially impacting tuition revenue and research funding.

Relevance Score: 4 (The order presents a need for potential major changes or transformations of programs and financial strategies.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Economic Research Department should conduct a detailed analysis of the impact of increased tariffs on steel and aluminum on the local and national economy. This research can provide insights into how these tariffs might affect industries related to Vanderbilt’s research and educational programs.
The Office of Federal Relations should engage with policymakers to understand the implications of these tariffs on federal funding and research grants. By staying informed, Vanderbilt can better navigate potential changes in funding availability and align its strategic priorities accordingly.
Vanderbilt’s Engineering School should explore opportunities to collaborate with domestic steel and aluminum industries, potentially leading to new research partnerships and funding opportunities. This could enhance the university’s role in supporting national manufacturing and infrastructure goals.
The Business School should offer courses or workshops on the economic and strategic implications of tariffs, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of trade policies and their effects on global and domestic markets.
Vanderbilt’s Career Services should prepare students for potential shifts in job markets due to these tariffs, particularly in industries related to manufacturing and trade. This preparation could include career counseling and networking opportunities with companies benefiting from the tariffs.

Opportunities

The increased tariffs present an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Research Centers to secure funding for projects that align with national priorities in manufacturing and infrastructure. By focusing on innovation in these areas, Vanderbilt can position itself as a leader in supporting economic growth and national security.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the emphasis on domestic production by developing programs that support entrepreneurship and innovation in manufacturing. This could include incubators or accelerators for startups focused on steel and aluminum industries.
The university can enhance its reputation by hosting conferences and public forums on the implications of trade policies, bringing together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of American manufacturing and trade.

Relevance Score: 4 (The executive order necessitates major process changes due to its significant impact on industries related to Vanderbilt’s research and educational programs.)

Average Relevance Score: 3.8

Timeline for Implementation

Tariff increase from 25% to 50% on steel and aluminum imports, effective June 4, 2025.
Possible changes or quotas on steel and aluminum imports from the United Kingdom starting July 9, 2025.

Relevance Score: 5

Impacted Government Organizations

The White House: As the executive office issuing the proclamation, the White House is central to the implementation and defense of the raised tariffs under Section 232.
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC): Referenced in the analysis report, the USITC is implicated in providing data and evaluations on the trade impacts of these tariffs.

Relevance Score: 1 (Only 1 or 2 federal agencies are directly impacted by the order.)

Responsible Officials

N/A – The text does not specify any designated officials responsible for the implementation of the tariff directive.

Relevance Score: 5 (This directive is issued by the President, directly impacting high-level national trade policy and requiring oversight at the White House and Cabinet level.)