HS Code:
This category pertains to steel articles under HS subheadings 9903.80.05 through 9903.80.58, which are granted relief from quantitative limitations imposed by the U.S. government. Relief is provided for steel products not produced in sufficient and reasonably available amounts or of satisfactory quality in the United States, or for specific national security reasons. These goods are still counted toward any quantitative limits proclaimed by the President until such limits are filled. This mechanism ensures that critical steel needs are met while maintaining oversight on import volumes to protect domestic industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $12.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Average Rate
25% ad valorem (where applicable, exemptions apply)
Highest Rate
25% (on non-exempt steel articles under Section 232)
Lowest Rate
0% (for qualifying exemptions or quota allocations)
Increased demand for specialty steel products
Higher import volumes under exemptions due to insufficient domestic production of specific steel grades, particularly for automotive and energy sectors.
2021-2022
Shift toward regional trade agreements
Growth in imports from USMCA partners (Canada and Mexico) due to favorable trade terms and exemptions from broader tariffs.
2020-2022
Global supply chain disruptions
Delays in steel deliveries and increased costs have prompted more exclusion requests for critical steel products not available domestically.
2021-2023
The U.S. Department of Commerce expanded the list of steel products eligible for exclusions under Section 232, citing insufficient domestic availability for certain high-strength steel alloys.
March 2023
Increased import allowances for specific steel categories, benefiting industries like aerospace and defense.
Enhanced monitoring mechanisms were introduced for steel imports from Canada and Mexico under the USMCA to ensure compliance with quota limits and prevent transshipment.
July 2022
Stricter oversight may temporarily slow import processing but ensures fair trade practices.
The Secretary of Commerce initiated a review of national security exemptions for steel imports to reassess critical supply needs for defense applications.
September 2023
Potential for revised eligibility criteria for exemptions, impacting import patterns for specialized steel.