Trump Considers Section 232 Tariffs on Six Key Industries
According to an exclusive report by The Wall Street Journal on February 23, the administration of Donald Trump is considering launching a new round of Section 232 national security tariff investigations targeting approximately six industries, potentially paving the way for additional tariffs on national security grounds.
The proposed measures would be separate from the 15% global tariff announced by Trump on February 22. On that date, Trump declared that the temporary 10% 'global tariff' would be raised to 15% under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The measure, which can remain in effect for roughly 150 days, was described as a rapid alternative following a recent Supreme Court ruling.
In contrast, the newly proposed tariffs would be imposed under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, the statutory framework specifically designed for national security-related trade measures. Section 232 has historically faced fewer legal challenges compared with other trade authorities.
Previously, Trump invoked Section 232 to levy tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on products including automobiles and auto parts, steel, aluminum, copper, and lumber. Those measures were not affected by the Supreme Court's recent ruling.
The industries reportedly under consideration for new Section 232 investigations include:
1. Large-scale batteries
2. Cast iron and iron fittings
3. Plastic piping and plastics
4. Industrial chemicals
5. Power grid and electrical grid equipment
6. Telecommunications equipment
The administration has indicated that these sectors are viewed as potentially affecting U.S. national and economic security.
The proposed action remains at the planning and consideration stage. No formal investigation has yet been announced, and no tariffs have been implemented.
Under U.S. procedures, a Section 232 investigation is initiated by the Department of Commerce and typically spans up to 360 days. However, timelines can be significantly shortened in cases deemed urgent or high priority. Following the investigation, the president has the authority to determine whether to impose tariffs and at what rate.
In addition, reports indicate that the administration plans to adjust existing steel and aluminum tariffs. It may also accelerate ongoing Section 232 investigations previously initiated in nine sectors, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, drones, industrial robots, and polysilicon.
On February 21, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled 6–3 that broad 'reciprocal tariffs' and 'fentanyl tariffs' imposed during Trump's second term under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) exceeded executive authority and were therefore invalid.
On February 22, U.S. Customs and Border Protection published a formal notice on its official website stating that, effective February 24, 2026, tariffs imposed under IEEPA — including reciprocal tariffs and fentanyl-related tariffs — would be terminated.