The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) has welcomed the removal of 25% tariffs on UK aluminium exports to the United States as part of a new UK-US trade agreement announced  this week. 

The deal is expected to bring significant relief to UK aluminium producers and  manufacturers, many of whom have faced prolonged uncertainty and trade friction since the  tariffs were first introduced under Section 232 measures. 

“This is a very welcome development for the UK aluminium industry,” said Nadine  Bloxsome, CEO of ALFED. “It allows our members to plan with greater confidence, re establish vital transatlantic trade links, and strengthen aluminium’s role in strategic supply  chains, particularly in sectors like automotive and aerospace. We want to thank the  Department for Business and Trade for its engagement with ALFED and the sector  throughout this process.” 

However, ALFED also warned that critical challenges remain. 

The UK aluminium recycling industry has been disproportionately impacted by the tariffs.  The artificially inflated price of scrap exports to the US has led to what industry experts call  “scrap leakage” – high volumes of secondary aluminium leaving the UK, reducing domestic  availability for recycling and undermining long-term sustainability goals. 

“This agreement must also be a moment of reflection,” Bloxsome continued. “Aluminium  was the first sector to face US tariffs. That tells us something. While this resolution is  welcome, it also highlights how vulnerable our sector can be if not properly supported. The  UK aluminium industry continues to be hit from all sides – energy costs, regulatory burdens,  and volatile trade conditions.” 

ALFED is now calling on the Government to work closely with the industry to secure a more  resilient future for aluminium in the UK. The Federation’s recommendations include: 

• Recognising aluminium as a strategic and critical material 

• Closing the policy gaps around aluminium scrap retention and secondary recycling • Strengthening safeguards against unfair trading practices 

• Embedding aluminium in long-term growth, clean energy, and industrial strategies 

Despite its strategic value to decarbonisation, manufacturing, infrastructure, and defence,  aluminium remains largely absent from national debate and industrial policymaking. ALFED  is urging greater visibility and recognition of the sector’s contribution and future potential. 

“This is a chance for the UK to treat aluminium as more than a commodity,” said Bloxsome.  “It is a critical enabler of the circular economy, net zero transition, and global  competitiveness. We are committed to working with Government to deliver a resilient and  future-ready aluminium industry.”

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