The US-based Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA) today sent the transition team of President-elect Donald J Trump a five-point plan for executive and legislative action that would strengthen manufacturing in the United States, promote job growth and capitalize on America’s carbon advantage.

The SMA is the largest steel industry trade association in the United States and is the primary trade association representing North American EAF steel producers.

The incoming administration is being urged by the SMA to take quick action in five areas:

  • Strengthen tariffs to support domestic manufacturing.
  • Stand up to unfair trade practices.
  • Stop regulatory overreach.
  • Advance pro-growth tax policy.
  • Monetize America’s environmental advantage.

“We are under constant threat from non-market economies who evade our trade laws to dump cheap, heavily subsidized, high-emissions steel and other products into the American market, making it hard for domestic manufacturers to compete. Fortunately, President-elect Trump has vowed to use every tool he can to end unfair trade while stimulating growth in jobs and productivity."

Philip K Bell, SMA president

“Moving swiftly to strengthen manufacturing in the United States represents the best way to ensure long-term success for American workers, families and communities,” SMA President Philip K. Bell said. “We are under constant threat from non-market economies who evade our trade laws to dump cheap, heavily subsidized, high-emissions steel and other products into the American market, making it hard for domestic manufacturers to compete. Fortunately, President-elect Trump has vowed to use every tool he can to end unfair trade while stimulating growth in jobs and productivity.

“We believe domestic steel will be a priority for the new administration,” Bell added. “Major projects require steel, including new roads, bridges, factories, pipelines, windmills, and ports. Steel’s the primary material in automobiles, heavy trucks, railcars, farm tractors, and ships. It’s central to national security, needed for munitions, tanks, warplanes, and critical infrastructure. Steel makes America great.”