Businesses globally are preparing for an anticipated expansion of tariffs under the Trump administration, impacting a wide array of products from bicycles to kitchenware. American companies of various sizes have requested the U.S. Department of Commerce to include approximately 700 additional items in a tariff plan that already included 407 products due to their steel content. This expansion could affect items such as metal-laden furniture and agricultural machines.
The situation has raised concerns across Europe, where industry leaders fear a growing list of “steel derivatives” could soon face tariffs, altering existing trade agreements. Both the UK and EU had accepted tariffs on goods, including a baseline rate of 10% for most items and 25% specifically for steel, with the EU agreeing to a 50% rate for steel goods. However, the new derivative tariffs could lead to increased costs for various products that contain steel, raising questions about the effectiveness of these trade deals.
The recent requests for tariff expansions have been submitted ahead of a deadline set for October 21 and follow a previous consultation held three months earlier. Given the previous success rate for requests, where nearly all additions were accepted, there are concerns that many current proposals could soon be implemented, affecting exports by December or January.
Companies submitting requests include a range of manufacturers, such as those producing bicycles, canned goods, and industrial machines. Notably, Guardian Bikes highlighted the import challenges posed by competition from Chinese manufacturers. Similarly, Red Gold, which operates canning facilities across the Midwest, expressed concerns about facing high tariffs on steel while foreign competitors experience no comparable duties.
Additional requests for inclusion on the tariff list are also coming from kitchenware companies that argue Chinese imports are undercutting local prices. Analysts indicate that the expansion of tariff requests aligns with growing concerns regarding U.S. trade policy and its implications for international relations, particularly with the UK and EU. A decision on the new tariffs is expected in December.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/nov/08/businesses-worldwide-brace-extra-trump-tariffs-steel-imports