US steelmakers support Trump’s trade policy

The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has supported US President Donald Trump’s America First trade policy. This is stated in a statement by AISI.

Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute, said: “AISI applauds the President’s commitment to view trade policy as a critical component of national security and to continue to pursue a strong and proactive agenda to address many of the top priorities for the American steel industry.

These issues, according to the statement, include combating foreign unfair trade practices and currency manipulation, ensuring full compliance with existing trade agreements, and leveling the playing field by strengthening anti-dumping and countervailing laws, including addressing the growing problem of transnational subsidies.

“Urgent action is needed to respond to these challenges, not only from China, but from many other countries around the world,” Dempsey emphasized.

AISI welcomed Trump’s order to review and evaluate the effectiveness of the Section 232 steel tariffs he imposed in 2018.

“We urge the new administration to take proactive steps to revitalize this program to ensure that it meets the goals set by President Trump during his first term,” the statement said.

At the same time, the statement of the American Steel Association (SMA) noted that Trump has repeatedly demonstrated support for US steelmakers and confirmed it by ordering an investigation into unfair trade and its impact on local production on the first day of his term.

The SMA also recalled the five-point action plan they had presented earlier, which included exactly these steps. In addition, they believe that legislation such as Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 will give the administration stronger tools to fulfill the US President’s orders.

Both industry associations noted that they look forward to working with the Trump administration to continue to develop the US steel industry.

As a reminder, the US is launching a comprehensive review of its trade relations. The executive order published on the White House website, in particular, orders the relevant agencies to investigate the causes of the US trade deficit with foreign countries, assess the feasibility of establishing the Foreign Revenue Service, identify unfair trade practices, and review existing trade agreements.