Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross last week said the country’s reliance on imports of steel and aluminum rather than domestic production poses a threat to national security. To “address the problem of steel imports” and boost domestic steel production, Ross provided President Donald Trump with several potential remedies, including imposing tariffs and quotas on a global basis or among select countries that export steel and aluminum to the United States.

Such penalties could limit resources, posing significant risk to IDFA members that rely on steel or aluminum imports for manufacturing equipment or packaging. The affected countries also could retaliate with measures to block American agricultural exports, like dairy products.

President Trump is required to make a decision on the steel recommendations by April 11, 2018, and on the aluminum recommendations by April 19, 2018. IDFA will continue to monitor the situation to assess the impact that these steps may have on the dairy industry and keep members informed.

For a full list of recommended penalties and report findings, visit commerce.gov.