WEST MIFFLIN, Pennsylvania: Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sharp increase in tariffs on steel imports, raising them from 25% to 50%, in a bid to strengthen the American steel industry. The new rate will take effect on June 4, Trump said during a speech at U.S. Steel’s Mon Valley Works-Irvin Plant near Pittsburgh.
“We’re going to raise tariffs on steel imports into the United States from 25% to 50%—this will further secure the steel industry,” Trump declared, addressing steelworkers and supporters in the swing state that was key to his 2016 election victory.
The announcement came during what Trump called a “major event” celebrating an agreement involving Japan’s Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel. While initially opposed to the foreign acquisition, Trump said he eventually approved a revised deal that ensures U.S. Steel will remain an American company, thanks to terms including a “golden share” allowing the U.S. government oversight rights.
“You’re going to stay an American company—you know that, right?” Trump told the workers. He added that the final deal protects American jobs and the country’s national security.
The move marks a sharp reversal from Trump’s earlier stance, where he promised to block Nippon Steel’s attempt to purchase U.S. Steel. He said he reconsidered after repeated negotiations led to improved conditions for American workers.
“They kept coming back, and every time, the deal got better for the workers,” Trump said. “Now we have a golden share—so I’ll be watching over it.”
Trump revealed that industry leaders had requested the higher 50% tariff. “At 25%, they could kind of get around it,” he said. “At 50%, nobody’s getting over that fence.”
He later reinforced the move on Truth Social, writing:
“It is my great honor to raise the Tariffs on steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, effective Wednesday, June 4th. Our steel and aluminum industries are coming back like never before… another BIG jolt of great news for our wonderful steel and aluminum workers. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
The announcement was made in a warehouse draped with American flags and a sign reading “The Golden Age.” Workers in hard hats stood alongside large coils of steel—used in appliances, automobiles, and construction—symbolizing the resurgence Trump promised.
Trump acknowledged the potential downside of rising steel prices but insisted that protecting domestic production was more important.
The tariff hike echoes Trump’s earlier policies—he imposed a 25% tariff on steel in March 2018, triggering retaliation from key trading partners like Canada and the EU. Friday’s move, however, comes amid a campaign to reclaim the White House and rally key industrial constituencies.
Trump concluded by inviting several steelworkers on stage, many of whom expressed gratitude for his efforts to revive the struggling industry.
“This is going to be one of the biggest days of your life,” Trump told them. “American steel is back.”
