Trump Expands Steel Tariffs to Home Appliances, Sets Rate at 50%
President Donald Trump has announced an expansion of steel tariffs that will significantly impact imported household appliances starting later this month. According to a notice posted on Thursday, items like dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, and more will now face a 50% tariff.
The Commerce Department stated that these tariffs, currently set at 50% for most countries, will apply to an additional range of “steel derivative products” beginning June 23. This move represents the second expansion of tariffs since the initial increase on imported steel and aluminum—from 25% starting in March to the current 50%.
Back in March, just before the first round of duties took effect, nearly 300 product categories were added to the list, covering everything from horseshoes to bulldozer blades. This latest expansion includes eight product lines: combined refrigerator-freezers; small and large dryers; washing machines; dishwashers; chest and upright freezers; cooking stoves, ranges, and ovens; food waste disposals; and welded wire racks.
“The tariff imposed will be assessed on these derivative products for the value of the steel content in each product,” the Federal Register posting stated.
Just a week ago, the administration doubled tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50%, following a series of similar actions targeting automobiles, auto parts, and various other goods from many of America’s trading partners. The government maintains that these measures are necessary to address “trade practices that undermine national security.”
