Editor’s Note: The tariff landscape remains complex and continues to evolve. An earlier version of this article, published on June 16, 2026, was retracted to correct the characterization of recent tariff changes affecting aluminum lithographic printing plates. We regret any confusion. This updated article reflects the latest available information and clarifies that the recent action may result in increased tariff costs for certain imported printing plates.
PRINTING United Alliance is closely monitoring recent changes to Section 232 tariffs affecting aluminum lithographic printing plates and the broader print supply chain. While the Alliance's recent reporting had characterized the latest federal action as a reduction in duties on imported lithographic plates from 50% to 25%, the practical impact is more nuanced and, for many importers, may represent a new cost increase.
It is important to distinguish between the 50% Section 232 duty on certain raw aluminum inputs and the separate 25% Section 232 derivative duty that now applies to imported aluminum lithographic printing plates. These are different tariff categories, and the recent action affecting imported plates did not eliminate the 50% duty on raw aluminum used by some domestic manufacturers.
On April 2, 2026, the White House issued Proclamation 11021, which restructured Section 232 tariffs on aluminum, steel, copper, and derivative products. As part of that action, certain products, including HTSUS 3701.30.00.00, the tariff classification for lithographic printing plates, were removed from the scope of Section 232 aluminum and steel derivative tariffs.
The tariff landscape changed again on June 1, 2026, when the White House issued a new proclamation further adjusting the tariff regimes for imports of aluminum, steel, and copper. That proclamation added aluminum lithographic plates and steel racks to the list of derivative products subject to Section 232 duties, at a rate of 25 percent. U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidance states that HTSUS 3701.30.00 is subject to Section 232 duties under the amended framework for goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after June 8, 2026.
For many imported lithographic plates, this means the relevant Section 232 derivative tariff moved from 0% under the April 2 action to 25% under the June 1 action. As a result, importers may now face higher tariff costs. The articles subject to a 25% tariff can be found in Annex I-B (see HTSUS 3701.30.00).
The previous article did not distinguish between finished imported lithographic plates and raw lithograde aluminum used by domestic plate manufacturers. The broader Section 232 tariff structure continues to impose a 50% duty on certain aluminum articles, including raw aluminum inputs used in U.S. manufacturing, The articles subject to a 50% tariff can be found in Annex I-A (see HTSUS 7606). This remains a significant concern for domestic manufacturers that rely on imported raw lithograde aluminum because they cannot source it in sufficient quantity from within the United States.
PRINTING United Alliance continues to advocate for tariff relief, clarity, and predictability across the printing supply chain. Aluminum lithographic printing plates are an essential input for printing operations, and sudden tariff changes create real cost pressures for printers, many of which are small and mid-sized businesses operating in a highly competitive environment.
The Alliance will continue engaging with federal policymakers and agency officials to seek practical solutions that support domestic manufacturers, protect access to critical inputs, and reduce unnecessary cost burdens across the industry. Members with questions about how these tariff changes may affect their businesses should consult their suppliers, customs advisors, or legal counsel for product-specific guidance.
In this article, Stephanie Buka, Government Affairs Manager, PRINTING United Alliance, updated a previous report on tariffs imposed on aluminum lithographic printing plates. More information can be found at Business Excellence-Legislationor reach out to Steph should you have additional questions specific to how these issues may affect your business: sbuka@printing.org.
To become a member of the Alliance and learn more about how our subject matter experts can assist your company with services and resources such as those mentioned in this article, please contact the Alliance membership team: 888-385-3588 / membership@printing.org.