Trump says US tariffs on heavy truck imports to begin November 1

Core Viewpoint - President Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on medium- and heavy-duty trucks starting November 1, 2025, aims to protect domestic industries and is a response to a Commerce Department investigation into heavy truck imports [1][2]. Industry Impact - The tariff is expected to affect an industry already facing challenges from existing tariffs on steel and aluminum, as well as stricter environmental regulations. It could lead to increased vehicle prices across various sectors, including shipping, construction, and municipal services [3]. - Approximately 245,000 medium- and heavy-duty trucks were imported to the US last year, representing a trade value exceeding $20 billion [5]. Company Responses - Stellantis NV has requested the administration to waive or soften the tariffs on medium-duty Ram pickups produced in Mexico, while competitors General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. oppose this, arguing it would create an unfair cost advantage for Stellantis [4]. - Companies like Daimler Truck Holding AG, Volvo Group, and Paccar Inc. may face significant impacts due to their reliance on imports, with International Motors LLC sourcing about 98% of its trucks from Mexico, and Daimler at approximately 83% [6]. Broader Tariff Context - The new truck tariffs are part of a broader strategy of industry-specific tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which already includes tariffs on steel, aluminum, copper, automobiles, and auto parts. Additional tariffs on various wood products are also set to take effect soon [7]. - Ongoing Section 232 investigations into other industries, such as solar panels and semiconductors, indicate a continued focus on protecting domestic manufacturing [8].