What the US steel tariffs are
The steel market has long been subject to fluctuations driven not only by supply and demand but also by international trade policies. In recent years, the United States has introduced tariffs on steel and other material imports with the stated goal of strengthening domestic production and reducing dependence on foreign supply. Since June 2025, these tariffs have been further increased, reaching up to 50% of the product value for many categories of steel. The measures fall under the US regulation known as Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows tariffs to be imposed when imports are considered critical to the country’s economic or industrial security. For foreign exporters – including European and Swiss producers – this means their products have become less competitive in the US market due to the immediate increase in costs.
The post-tariff steel market: effects and concrete figures
Rising overall costs
An analysis by Boston Consulting Group estimates that the doubling of tariffs could generate up to 50 billion US dollars in additional customs costs for the steel and aluminum sectors. These potential costs ripple throughout the value chain, from steelmakers to end-users across different industries, such as construction, automotive, and machinery.
Reduction in imports
Preliminary industry data suggest that, as early as June 2025, net steel imports into the United States had already started to decrease. Standard products such as coils and sheets appear particularly affected, as the higher tariff reduces their competitiveness compared to domestically produced alternatives.
Rising US domestic prices
The gap between steel prices in the United States and Europe appears to be widening. American companies relying on imported raw materials face higher costs which, inevitably, are passed along the value chain, affecting the final price of goods and infrastructure.
Push for local production
The tariffs act as an incentive for US steel mills, manufacturers and machine shops to invest in new plants or expand existing ones, reducing reliance on foreign supply. At the same time, many companies are exploring alternative solutions to contain costs: from optimizing designs to sourcing substitute materials. The overall picture is therefore that of a polarized market: declining imports, higher domestic prices, and a growing focus on domestic production.
Montanstahl in the US: Stainless Structurals as a Strategy Against Steel Tariffs
In such a complex scenario, Montanstahl’s long-term strategy proves successful. Thanks to the establishment in Conroe (XT) of its US sister company Stainless Structurals back in 2005, the Group secured a local production and distribution in the United States.
Thanks to Stainless Structurals, the Group can cater to the American market and offer stainless and carbon steel profiles while limiting exposure to tariff barriers. The benefits for US customers are concrete:
Competitive and stable prices, less affected by import tariffs, for laser-welded profiles in stainless steel and carbon steel (and soon also for hot-extruded profiles…)
Faster delivery times, thanks to local production and stock availability.
Direct technical support provided by a US-based team working closely with the Group’s international expertise and manufacturing capabilities.
While many foreign suppliers face higher costs, supply chain disruptions, and tariff-related uncertainty, Montanstahl can ensure continuity, reliability, and quality in the US market.
Why Local Presence Makes the Difference for Montanstahl
The new US steel tariffs have profoundly altered market dynamics, creating significant obstacles for foreign exporters. In this environment, local presence becomes a crucial strategic advantage.
Thanks to Stainless Structurals, Montanstahl is today able to turn a challenge into an opportunity: serving American customers with the same quality and precision that distinguish the Group worldwide, while mitigating the impact of tariff barriers.