Statement regarding U.S. tariffs

Media Release: 12 March 2025 

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) says the decision of the US Trump Administration to confirm the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminium is deeply disappointing and will harm Australian steel and aluminium exporters.

“Imposing trade barriers between the United States and Australia will reduce trade and harm businesses and consumers,” ACCI chief executive officer Andrew McKellar said.

“Australia and the United States signed a Free Trade Agreement in 2005 for the purposes of enhancing trade, and these tariffs run counter to that agreement.

“Australia and the US have enjoyed a mutually beneficial two-way trade relationship for decades, and it is deeply disappointing to see the US imposing trade barriers between our countries,” said Mr McKellar.

“Australian business has worked hand in glove with the Commonwealth Government to try to persuade the US Administration into continuing free trade on steel and aluminium.

“ACCI has been and will continue to work with the Australian Government in support of its advocacy efforts and with partner organisations in Australia and in the United States,” said Mr McKellar.

“We now need to monitor any ill-effects of these tariffs, both direct and indirect, to ensure that business and policymakers have the best understanding of how to move forward.”