The Japan Aluminium Association has outlined how US tariffs will affect the Japanese market.
On 12 March 2026, the US Trump Administration imposed a 25% tariff on aluminium products under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act.
While the tariff previously applied to nine items, including sheets, bars/shapes, tubes, wires and aluminium foil, 123 items incorporating aluminium have now been included.
These newly affected products include derivative items such as parts and materials for semiconductor manufacturing equipment and aircraft-related products.
Aluminium plays a critical role in key industries, including automotive, semiconductors, and electronic equipment. From a security standpoint, it is an essential material for aviation, space, defence, and other strategic sectors.
According to the association, Japan exported aluminium rolled products and foil worth 23.5 billion yen to the US in 2024, while imports from the US totalled 27.9 billion yen, resulting in a trade deficit of 4.4 billion yen.
Over the past decade, the average annual trade deficit has been 3.5 billion yen, highlighting Japan’s position of excess imports from the United States.
Japan’s high-quality products are indispensable for strengthening the competitiveness of US manufacturing. These exports significantly contribute to US industry and employment.
The imposition of tariff measures on Japanese aluminium products is, according to the association, “deeply regrettable”.
During METI Minister Muto’s recent visit to the United States, both governments agreed to establish a framework for administrative-level consultations.
The association will closely monitor the developments and continue working closely with the Japanese government to seek exemptions from these measures.