U.S. Construction Industry Squeezed by New
Tariffs
The Construction MMI (Monthly Metals Index) moved sideways, dropping by 2.0%
month-over-month. In early June 2025, new Trump tariffs doubled pre-existing steel
and aluminum duties from 25% to 50%. As buyers scrambled, U.S. aluminum premiums
immediately hit a record 60ยข/lb. Meanwhile, the tariff surge is already squeezing the U.S.
construction industry.
Construction Input Inflation
Construction material costs continue to rise alongside mounting pressures from Trump tariffs. According to the Associat-
ed Builders and Contractors, March 2025 marked the third month of increased input prices in the U.S.
Report continued on pg 48
IDA Universal Aug - Sept 2025
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