Trump Announces 50% Tariff on Imported Steel During Pittsburgh Speech

Report by Safarti Tarjuman Business Desk

Donald Trump has announced a significant increase in tariffs on imported steel, raising the rate from 25% to 50%, during a speech delivered at a US Steel facility near Pittsburgh. The event, filled with campaign-style energy, took place against the backdrop of US Steel’s acquisition by Japan’s Nippon Steel.

Speaking to a crowd of steelworkers, Trump highlighted the importance of protecting American industry and justified the move under national security grounds. He invoked Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which grants the president authority to adjust import tariffs to safeguard national security interests.

Although a recent court ruling challenged Trump’s general ability to impose tariffs, the legal framework of Section 232 still allows him to raise tariffs on steel unilaterally, reinforcing the legality of his latest decision.

The announcement comes amid concerns about foreign influence on critical U.S. industries and is likely to draw strong reactions from international trade partners and domestic stakeholders alike. Trump emphasized that the measure is aimed at defending American jobs and industrial capacity from what he described as “unfair global competition.”