Tariffs are back in the news, or maybe they’re delayed again. Whether tariffs stick around or not, the uncertainty itself can create pressure on aluminum prices, supply timelines, and your next batch of cans might cost more or take longer.
You don't have time to study international trade policy, and neither do we. But this stuff impacts all of us, so here’s a summary of what we know (as of Feb 6, 2026), what matters, and what doesn't.
At a glance
February 20-24, 2026 (LATEST UPDATE)
The Supreme Court ruled the IEEPA tariffs unconstitutional on Feb 20, and U.S. Customs will halt their collection on Feb 24. While the administration immediately enacted a 15% global tariff under Section 122 as a replacement, this new tariff will not be applied to aluminum cans and ends.
Under the Section 122 proclamation, goods already subject to Section 232 duties are exempt. Therefore, aluminum cans and ends remain subject to the 25% Section 301 duty and the 50% Section 232 duty, but bypass the new 15% surcharge. With the 10% IEEPA (Opioid) tariff removed, the total potential duty is now approx. 75-80%.
January 2026
Section 301 duties (25%) and a 10% IEEPA (Opioid) tariff [INVALIDATED FEB 20, 2026] also apply to both cans and ends.
August 19, 2025
Can ends and lids (HS code: 8309.90) added to the Section 232 aluminum derivatives list.
June 1, 2025
The U.S. doubled the aluminum tariff to 50%, citing national security concerns.
March 12, 2025
U.S. announced a 25% tariff under Section 232 on aluminum imports. A broader U.S.-China tariff rollback on May 12 did not include aluminum.
| Aspect |
Details |
| Our Canadian Pricing? |
Not directly affected right now. Our aluminum cans and ends arrive directly into Canada without passing through the U.S. That said, the market does not exist in a vacuum. With U.S. buyers facing 90-95% duties, demand for regional inventory is shifting, which can indirectly impact local pricing and supply. |
| Market Impact? |
Aluminum prices are already rising due to global uncertainty. Expect potential invoice increases, longer wait times, or changes to supplier terms soon. (if not already)
*Note: While the Canadian government added a 25% tax to 'Steel Derivatives' on December 26, 2025, they extended the duty-free waiver for aluminum packaging until June 30, 2026. This provides short-term domestic stability, but we are closely monitoring whether aluminum will eventually follow the same path as steel. |
| Who Does This Affect (Directly)? |
Primarily beverage producers and packaging companies whose products (filled or empty), eventually cross into the U.S. market. |
The key takeaway is that while the tariffs themselves are uncertain and currently delayed, the market is already reacting. Right now, your Canadian pricing remains stable. However, be prepared for potential ripple effects price fluctuations and longer lead times as the situation evolves.
What actually matters (and what doesn't):
Should I lock in supply right now?
It depends. Larger operations with fixed production schedules might prefer locking in to ensure stability, knowing their exact costs upfront. But if you think tariffs might ease soon, holding off a bit and staying flexible could save you money in the short run. There's no right answer, just know which camp you're in, plan accordingly, and avoid panic buying.
Should I find backup suppliers?
It might sound strange coming from a can and ends supplier ourselves (it’s definitely not in our immediate interest). But if things tighten up, knowing who to call could save your next run. We're always happy to be your first call, but we don't mind being your second either.
Will these tariffs go away soon?
If the past few years taught us anything (COVID lockdowns, container shortages, port strikes, etc.), it’s that the unexpected has become expected. That’s why we’ve stocked up a bit extra, so we can keep your supply steady while things shake out.
The headlines might change again next week, which is nothing new and we've navigated plenty of twists already. Between the déjà vu of tariff talk and the drama, we’re staying focused on what we can control. Cheers to keeping things simple, at least where we can.
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