Section 232

Section 232 is a U.S. trade measure based on a national-security law. It allows the government to investigate whether imports of a product or material could threaten U.S. national security, including by weakening domestic production or important supply chains. Steel and aluminum are common examples, but the measure can also cover other national-security-related goods.

When a Section 232 measure applies, it generally creates an additional duty, often called a Section 232 additional duty, on covered imports. This duty is separate from the product’s normal customs duty and other possible trade measures. Coverage may depend on the product’s tariff classification, country of origin, quota or exemption rules, and sometimes the steel or aluminum content of a finished product. Importers should verify the official tariff provisions and entry instructions rather than relying only on a product description.

What to check

• Confirm the product’s HTSUS classification, because Section 232 coverage is tied to specific tariff provisions and may differ between similar products.
• Check the measure’s scope and country rules, including whether the item is covered in full or only for its steel or aluminum content.
• Review current quota, exclusion, exemption, or alternative-arrangement requirements, and keep supporting approval or documentation records.
• Determine whether the Section 232 duty is in addition to normal duty and any antidumping, countervailing, or other trade remedies.
• Ask a customs broker or trade counsel to review complex origin, content-value, classification, or scope questions before filing.