Aluminum 232 Exclusion/Objection Process in Full Swing

Since our last update, the 232 exclusion/objection process is in full swing.  Over the last several weeks we have continued to refine the workflow and communication of the exclusion requests to make sure membership continues to receive the communications and objects when appropriate. For those members that have been working through the process we at AEC HQ thank you.  If for some reason you’re an AEC Extruder Member who should be receiving these communications, please let me know at jweber@tso.net and we’ll make sure you’re added to the distribution list.

Although there are new companies submitting requests, we continue to see the same entities entering the bulk of the exclusion requests.  However, for the most part the exclusion requests are much the same with slight changes here and there.  This does simplify the objection process in a way where similar objections can be filed for multiple exclusion requests.

As a reminder, price is not a valid reason for a company to seek an exclusion request.  Objections are simple where an Extruder Member should object if the objecting company is able to meet the specifications, volume and lead-time detailed in the exclusion request.  Additionally, if you have reviewed some of the exclusion requests, you noticed that many of them contain anodized or paint requirements.  An extruder not having an anodizing or paint facility on site would not preclude them from objecting.  If you have an anodizing or paint supplier you work with and can meet the specification, volume, and lead-time, an objection is again warranted.

As we continue to progress through this exclusion/objection process, we will be communicating the number of objections received on each item and the wins and losses as the exclusion completes the process.  In the end we are looking to record three to four objections per exclusion request and will provide weekly updates.

In other news on the 232 front, the Biden administration announced an agreement with Mexico (read the announcement here), which implements a “smelted and cast” requirement from products imported into the U.S. from Mexico in order to qualify for an exemption to the 232 Tariff.  Under this rule change, aluminum must be “smelted and cast” not from countries of concern (Belarus, China, Russia, and Iran).  While this only applies to the HTS codes covered under the 232 program, this is a good first step in stemming the flow of aluminum from the countries noted that distort the market.