Russian Aluminum Imports Sanctioned With 200% Tariff by The US

• President Joe Biden signed a proclamation to impose a 200% tariff on aluminum imports from Russia, citing threats to national security. This tariff will affect solar panel frames, racking, and structural mounts used in photovoltaic arrays.

What happened?

On Friday, March 10, 2023, the Biden Administration signed a proclamation that imposes a 200% tariff on aluminum imports from Russia. This tariff applies to aluminum extrusion imports from Russia and will take effect for aluminum products directly imported from Russia. Additionally, on April 10, 2023, the tariff will be imposed on anything imported with any amount of aluminum smelted in Russia. According to an investigation conducted by the Secretary of Commerce, these imports are deemed a threat to national security. 

Why does it matter?

Aluminum is a common material found in solar panel frames and racking and structural mounts used on PV arrays. The new aluminum duties accompany a 25% tariff that was imposed in 2018 and extended in March 2022 on all structural steel imported from China. Russia is the fifth-largest importer of aluminum to the United States. President Joe Biden called Russia’s war with Ukraine “unconscionable,” and the proclamation notes that its “aluminum industry is a key part of Russia’s defense industrial base.” The tariff is also meant to bolster domestic aluminum production. 

What's next?

The Biden Administration's tariffs on Russian aluminum imports are intended to protect American industry and bolster domestic production. The tariff will affect solar panel frames, racking, and structural mounts used in photovoltaic arrays, as well as other aluminum imports from Russia. As the tariff takes effect, the Biden Administration will continue to assess the effects of the tariff on the US economy and solar energy industry.