Trump Implements New Metal Tariffs, Raising Aerospace and Defense Costs

President Trump’s overhaul of Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper takes effect today, April 6, 2026.

The administration originally announced these policy changes on April 2.

New rules shift duty calculations from metal-content value to the full customs value of imported goods.

Derivative products substantially made of targeted metals face a 25% tariff on their total value.

Goods made almost entirely of steel, aluminum, or copper are subject to a 50% tariff.

This policy aims to prevent foreign producers from circumventing existing duties.

Higher import prices for critical components will impact manufacturers tracked by the XAR ETF.