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The 232 Takes Center Stage

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The 232 exclusion requests, objections, rebuttals and surrebuttals process continues with the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC).  Since the exclusion process on aluminum extrusions restarted in June, AEC members have logged more than 500 objections and over 40 surrebuttals with the DOC.  While there have been a few very specific exclusion requests (i.e., hard alloy, seamless tube, etc.), objections have been limited to only one producing company.  As an industry, we have mounted a stellar defense with all exclusion requests receiving three or more objections from member companies.  At this point, there have yet to be any exclusion requests to make it to the final determination and we are hoping to have the first round of results to share at the Fall Management Conference.  However, if we do start to receive results before mid-September, we will make sure to communicate results as they are made available. 

The number of 232 exclusion requests greatly decreased at the end of July and beginning of August.  At this point, it is unknown whether the current volume of requests is a temporary lull due to the summer vacations or something else.  We shall see.  We cannot thank AEC membership enough for your continued participation and persistence in working through these requests.  It is amazing to see the engagement in the process and the willingness of our members to help protect and defend the domestic industry. 

At the upcoming Fall Management Conference there will be plenty of opportunities to learn and engage in everything from the trade case to 232 and other opportunities involving the AEC’s selection to participate in the EPA’s GHG/EPD/LCA grant program and more! 

The initial phase of the 14-country trade case concludes with the final determination in a few months.  The AEC’s efforts will pivot to defending the orders.  Just as with the 232 tariffs, there will be opportunities for members to engage and get involved.  As the AEC looks forward to 2025, we anticipate having a robust discussion with membership during the Town Hall portion of the program at the conference. 

Looking forward to seeing everyone in September! 

Jason Weber, VP of Operations & Government Affairs, Aluminum Extruders Council (AEC)


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