The Biden administration is considering a complete embargo on Russian aluminum. Aluminum, which is critical for a wide range of applications including cars, skyscrapers and smartphones, has so far been exempt from sanctions, but it is responding to escalating Russian military action in Ukraine.
The White House is considering three options, according to a person familiar with the matter. A total ban, raising tariffs to punitive levels that would result in a virtual ban, and sanctions on Russian aluminum giant UC Rusal International.
Such a move would likely have far-reaching effects on the global aluminum market, potentially forcing demand in the United States and elsewhere to turn to alternative metals.
Russia is the second largest aluminum producer in the world after China. Russia has historically accounted for about 10% of all U.S. aluminum imports and was the third-largest supplier in August.
The ban comes in response to Russia’s missile attacks on critical infrastructure and civilian targets in several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv.
The White House and the Commerce Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
news-rsf-original-reference paywall">Original title:White House Weighs Ban on Russian Aluminum in Retaliatory Move(excerpt)