The recent doubling of Section 232 tariffs to 50%, announced by President Trump, has introduced significant uncertainty to the US steel market, with traders reporting disruptions to imports, paused domestic mill quotes and concerns over potential price increases amid modest demand. Industry participants are now assessing how the additional costs will be absorbed across the supply chain.

Here are the key takeaways from market participants on US ferrous scrap metal prices, market confidence, inventory and more from our May survey.

Understand how European paper packaging is affected by recent US tariffs and evolving global economic conditions

US trade policy discussion dominated conversations at the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) annual conference in San Diego on May 12-15, with speakers in focused trade panels and commodity spotlights dissecting the decisions and potential actions of the Trump administration.

A US court has struck down key reciprocal tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant unlimited tariff authority. While markets reacted positively, Section 232 duties on steel and aluminium remain in effect, prompting continued uncertainty and a likely appeal by the Trump administration.

Discover how big oil is fuelling change in the global electric vehicle (EV) market with the latest episode of Fast Forward podcast

Investors in the US corn and wheat markets amassed shorts in the week to Tuesday May 13, moving corn from a net long to a net short for the first time since October, data from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) showed late on Friday May 16.

The US aluminium industry is experiencing challenges related to tariffs, which have contributed to higher prices and premiums, raising questions about potential impacts on demand. Alcoa's CEO has noted that sustained high prices could affect the domestic market. While trade agreements might provide some relief, analysts expect premiums to remain elevated in the near term. However, aluminum demand is projected to grow over the long term, supported by the energy transition and clean energy projects. To meet this demand, the industry will need to increase production, restart idle smelters and address factors such as electricity costs and global competition.

The UK’s domestic bioethanol industry could be at risk as a result of the recent trade deal announced between the UK and the US, industry members have warned.

Learn how timber imports affect the US economy regarding Canadian softwood lumber and future trade policies.