⚠️ BREAKING: U.S. Tariffs on Chinese Steel Hit 50%+12.5% – Your Window to Lock In Prices Is Closing Fast

June 2026 will go down as a turning point for China-U.S. steel trade. Two major tariff actions have converged, creating unprecedented cost pressure for steel exporters and importers alike.

First, the U.S. Section 232 steel tariff remains at 50%. Since June 2025, all steel and aluminum imports from China have been subject to a 50% national security tariff under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. More recently, on June 2, 2026, President Trump signed a proclamation adding two new categories of derivative steel products to the 25% duty list – steel racks and aluminum lithographic plates – effective June . This expands the scope of the already punishing tariff regime.

Second, a brand-new Section 301 tariff is coming. On June 2, 2026, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced the results of a forced labor investigation covering 60 economies, proposing an additional 10%–12.5% punitive tariff. China and Hong Kong have been placed in the highest bracket at 12.5%-5. That’s not all – another Section 301 investigation focused on “manufacturing structural overcapacity” is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, which will add even more tariffs on top.

That is potentially 62.5%+ in total tariffs on Chinese steel entering the U.S. market.

If your projects rely on Chinese PPGI, galvanized coil, or aluminized products, now is the last window to secure them before the full tariff package lands. The 12.5% forced labor tariff is currently in public comment phase, but implementation is highly likely. Once finalized, every container you ship will cost significantly more.

📩 Contact CNB Group today. Lock in current pricing before the tariff wave hits. We have ready stock of GI, PPGI, and GL coils in key specifications – but not for long.