April 9, 2026 14:20

Amid a climate of uncertainty, not to say confusion, the US government began applying a 25% tariff on most machinery imported from Europe on April 6, partly worsening the tariff framework previously in force.

As reported by VDMA, the German mechanical engineering association, although the complex calculation of the steel and aluminum content in the value of machinery will no longer be required in future, companies must still provide proof of where the steel and aluminum used in the machinery were cast or smelted.
“For many companies, this is unfeasible, as such proof is required even for the smallest standard components, such as screws. The risk of punitive tariffs of up to 200 percent for non-compliance remains.”

For certain metal-intensive machinery listed in Annex III (see table), such as injection molding machines, related molds, including those for blow molding and compression molding, and handling systems, a maximum tariff of 15% will apply until December 31, 2027. The stated aim is to avoid putting buyers of these goods at a disadvantage while the industrial base in the United States is being rebuilt.

For products made entirely or predominantly of steel, aluminum or copper, the latter included for the first time, a flat 50% tariff will apply to the total import value, falling to 25% for those with “substantial” content. If they are manufactured with metals of US origin, the tariff is reduced to 10%.

See also: White House document on the presidential proclamation of April 2.

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