The Aluminum Association has released a comprehensive policy brief outlining the U.S. aluminum industry’s strategic priorities under the new administration. Titled “Aluminum for America: A Presidential Policy Brief,” the document highlights key challenges facing the sector and provides a roadmap to strengthen the domestic aluminum industry. The association’s president and CEO, Charles Johnson, emphasized the importance of a strong aluminum industry to both the U.S. economy and national security.

The brief focuses on several major priorities, including addressing unfair trade practices, bolstering recycling efforts, and ensuring reliable access to critical materials like aluminum. The Aluminum Association believes these actions will support continued growth in the industry, which has already seen more than $10 billion in investment for new and upgraded facilities across the U.S.

Tackling Trade Challenges and Strengthening Recycling Infrastructure

A primary concern raised in the brief is the unfair trade practices by China, which the Aluminum Association identifies as a significant threat to the U.S. aluminum sector. The association advocates for stronger trade enforcement mechanisms to counter government-subsidized production and oversupply from nonmarket economies. It supports the continuation of tariff-free aluminum flow with Canada, as this partnership provides two-thirds of the primary aluminum used by U.S. manufacturers. The brief also calls for closing trade loopholes that allow unfairly traded aluminum to enter the market.

In addition to trade concerns, the Aluminum Association stresses the need to expand U.S. recycling efforts. More than 80% of aluminum used in U.S. production comes from recycled materials. To meet future demand, the association advocates for improved collection, sorting, and melting of end-of-life aluminum products. Investing in recycling infrastructure and developing advanced sorting technologies will help keep more aluminum onshore and reduce reliance on imports.

Securing America’s Aluminum Future

The Aluminum Association also views aluminum as a critical material essential to both economic and national security. It calls for a national strategy to secure supply chains, prioritize domestic production, and reduce dependence on materials from adversarial countries. To achieve this, the association supports programs that incentivize modern manufacturing, promote affordable energy, and boost critical materials production.

The policy brief highlights the importance of maintaining and expanding the 45X Advanced Manufacturing tax credit program and urges the administration to invest in energy sources that can lower the carbon footprint of aluminum production. Furthermore, the association advocates for policies that support the U.S. aluminum industry’s transition to more sustainable and resilient practices, including investments in energy infrastructure and recycling technologies.