The letter stressed that the surge in global steel overcapacity has severely harmed the U.S. market, while previous agreements have failed to control the problem. It also highlighted that the American steel industry is not only about production, but also serves as the backbone of critical sectors such as automotive, defense, construction, energy, and transportation.
Vice Chairman Mrvan stated: “Section 232 steel tariffs are critical to our national security and the economic strength of the American steel industry. We will continue to support this program to ensure that steelworkers and producers can compete under fair conditions.”
Chairman Crawford added: “Section 232 steel tariffs are vital to protecting the American steel industry both economically and in terms of national security. The administration must safeguard Section 232 against bad actors engaging in unfair trade practices.”
The letter also drew attention to OECD projections that global steel overcapacity could reach 721 million tons by 2027—equivalent to nearly nine times total U.S. steel production in 2024. It noted that China’s steel exports hit a record 118 million tons in 2024, creating severe imbalances in global markets.
The lawmakers urged the administration not to sign any measures that would weaken Section 232, to adopt stronger actions against unfair trade practices, and to develop policies that would enhance the competitiveness of domestic producers in global markets.
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