Leibowitz on Trade: Tariffs and the metals trade

Are you still recovering from the election? If so, please get plenty of rest. Next year will require you to be awake and alert. Things are likely to change. We can’t be sure exactly how they will change yet.

More tariffs are clearly likely, but it’s not yet clear when. The president’s ability to raise tariffs may depend on Congress. The Republican majorities are there, but the margin is not great. Senate action on legislation to raise tariffs or authorize the President to do so without finding or an administrative proceeding (as in Section 232 or Section 301, the basis for the steel and aluminum trade restrictions and tariffs on China, respectively) requires 60 votes. And Republicans do not want to end the filibuster.

Lewis Leibowitz

Lewis Leibowitz, owner of the Law Office of Lewis E. Leibowitz, practices in the areas of international trade law, customs law, and international commercial transactions. He represents clients before all federal courts and agencies dealing with international trade matters. Mr. Leibowitz advises and assists clients in diverse matters including trade remedies, customs, foreign-trade zones and free trade agreements, trade negotiations, and related matters. He can be reached at lewis.leibowitz@lellawoffice.com.