Why It Matters

EGA America Inc, the second-largest foreign aluminum supplier to the U.S., is taking on aluminum tariffs which stand at 50 percent, with aggressive lobbying tactics. It will be an uphill battle as all policy is being made through Executive actions not through Congress.

EGA is competing against domestic producers like the Aluminum Association supporting tariffs, while potentially aligning with downstream users like the Beer Institute and Molson Coors opposed to tariffs.

By the Numbers

EGA America Inc. has engaged Ankura Advocacy LLC for its inaugural federal lobbying effort in 2025, focusing on aluminum tariffs, export controls, and general tax issues. Two lobbyists represent EGA: Dean K. Thomas, who brings extensive lobbying experience since 2008 plus Congressional service as Legislative Assistant to Rep. Tim Ryan (D-OH) from 2003-2009, and Hunter Voegele, who shifted to trade and manufacturing issues in 2025.

The Agenda

Emirates Global Aluminium’s U.S. subsidiary is lobbying on aluminum tariffs and export controls pursued on national security grounds, plus general tax issues. The focus on aluminum tariffs directly reflects the substantial 50% Section 232 duties now imposed on most aluminum-exporting countries, significantly impacting EGA’s ability to sell imported aluminum in the American market.

Broader Context

The Trump administration escalated Section 232 tariffs from 25% to 50% between February and June 2025, and broadened the scope in August 2025 by adding 407 new derivative product categories. BCG estimates these 50% tariffs will add $50 billion in total tariff costs to the U.S. economy.

The UAE is now the second-largest foreign supplier of aluminum to the U.S., providing approximately 8% of total consumption. However, EGA operates as the world’s lowest-cost primary aluminum producer, potentially enabling profitability even under tariff pressure.

Strategic precedents exist: the UK negotiated 25% tariffs, and the EU secured tariff-rate quotas allowing duty-free entry for specified quantities. EGA’s announced U.S. production facility strengthens its lobbying position as an American investor.

Between The Lines

Congress has not formally engaged aluminum tariff policy through legislation or hearings, leaving debate to executive action. However, Members are highly vocal about Section 232 aluminum tariffs. Critics including Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51) argue tariffs harm manufacturers and consumers, while Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) supports a "targeted approach."

The Bottom Line

EGA America’s first federal lobbying campaign signals rising foreign producer engagement in U.S. aluminum policy debates. With domestic producers supporting tariffs and downstream users opposing them, EGA enters a fragmented battlefield where no active legislation exists, leaving policy entirely to executive action.

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