The US Aluminum Association has urged President Trump's administration to reconsider a 50% tariff on imports of the metal.
Its President & CEO Charles Johnson said the 50% tariffs 'threatens to undermine the very industry the administration aims to support.'
He made the statement after the Trump administration increased Section 232 aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50% earlier this week.
Mr Johnson said: "The Aluminum Association, which represents the full industry supply chain and 70% of domestic production, urges the administration to reconsider today's decision given the negative impact it will have on manufacturers."
He said aluminium and steel are fundamentally different metals with distinct supply chains, market dynamics and strategic challenges.
A one-size-fits-all approach to trade policy for these materials risks unintended consequences for the US economy and its national defense, he continued.
A 50% tariff rate could also raise prices for consumers, decrease demand and undermine the industry’s ability to serve the US defense industrial base.
"The industry appreciates the Trump administration’s focus on bringing more aluminium production and jobs back to the United States and remains committed to supporting these goals.
He added: "We look forward to working closely with the administration to clearly articulate industry concerns related to Section 232 tariffs and provide alternative actions that will better support the future growth of the US aluminum industry.”