ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 9739ProclamationTrump 45 · R Quiet signal

Proclamation 9739

Adjusting Imports of Aluminum Into the United States

TradeTradeEconomy & LaborEconomy & LaborDefense & SecurityDefense & Security

In simple terms

This proclamation extends tariff exemptions on aluminum imports: indefinitely for Argentina, Australia, and Brazil (pending finalization of alternative agreements), and until June 1, 2018 for Canada, Mexico, and EU member countries (with tariffs to apply after that date unless satisfactory alternative arrangements are reached). It also amends prior proclamations regarding duty timing, foreign trade zone status, and drawback eligibility.

Federal Register Open PDF 83 FR 20677

Record & deadlines

  1. Signed

    Signed by the President

  2. FR published

    Published in the Federal Register · 83 FR 20677

    Federal Register PDF

  3. Secretary to revise HTSUS and publish in Federal Register (no specific date given)

  4. Tariffs effective on Canada, Mexico, EU aluminum imports absent satisfactory alternative agreement

Key directives

  • Exempt Argentina, Australia, Brazil from 10% aluminum tariff indefinitely
  • Extend Canada, Mexico, EU exemption until 12:01 a.m. EDT June 1, 2018
  • Apply tariff to Canada, Mexico, EU starting June 1, 2018 absent further proclamation
  • Amend Proclamation 9704 clause 2 with new effective date structure
  • Amend Proclamation 9710 clause 5 regarding foreign trade zone 'domestic status' eligibility
  • Clarify foreign trade zone status retention for privileged foreign status aluminum
  • Prohibit drawback on duties imposed under Proclamation 9704
  • Secretary to revise HTSUS and publish modifications in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Prior policy

  • amendProclamation 9704, clause 2
  • amendProclamation 9710, clause 5
  • supersedeAny inconsistent provision of previous proclamations and Executive Orders

Related orders

  • amendsEO Proclamation 9704
  • amendsEO Proclamation 9710

What to expect

Immediate

  • Exemption takes effect for Argentina, Australia, Brazil with no expiration date
  • Exemption extended for Canada, Mexico, EU through May 31, 2018

Near term (90d)

  • June 1, 2018: Tariffs apply to Canada, Mexico, EU if no alternative agreement reached
  • Secretary must revise HTSUS to conform to amendments

Long term

  • Potential permanent exclusions for Argentina, Australia, Brazil if alternative means finalized
  • Ongoing trade negotiations with multiple partners

Risks & tensions

  • Trade war escalation risk if Canada, Mexico, EU fail to reach alternative agreements by June 1
  • Vague 'shortly' timeline for Argentina, Australia, Brazil finalization creates uncertainty
  • EU and other allies may retaliate against U.S. exports if tariffs implemented
  • National security justification for tariffs on allies remains contested
  • Domestic aluminum users face cost pressures if exemptions narrow
Proclamation 9739: Adjusting Imports of Aluminum Into the United States · Executive Orders