The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has released a new economic analysis, authored by PLASTICS Chief Economist Dr. Perc Pineda, highlighting the impact of the recent expansion of Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs on the plastics industry.

Dr. Pineda writes, “The U.S. plastics industry leans heavily on imported equipment—especially injection molding machines that have not been produced domestically in years. According to 2023 data, imports accounted for 74.5% of domestic shipments, while exports were just 28.9%. This reliance is not a weakness, but a reflection of reality: essential machinery simply is no longer manufactured in the U.S. anymore.”

“The rationale for Section 232 tariffs rests on national security. Plastics play a role here too—federal defense spending on plastics reached $5.7 billion last year. This estimate is part of PLASTICS’ annual Size and Impact study of the plastics industry, with the next edition set for release on September 16, 2025, at an Executive Briefing for PLASTICS members and the press,” continued Dr. Pineda. 

For more information, visit https://www.plasticsindustry.org/.