Why US breweries sourcing cans may need to stay vigilant

US breweries are urged to remain cautious about packaging costs after a new update to Section 232 has been expanded upon for cans.

According to the US Department of Commerce, can ends and lids have been included to the Section 232 list which addresses national security concerns linked to aluminium and steel imports.

The tariffs and quota-based restrictions have since affected a wide range of products used by brewers, including drinks cans, can sheets, and now, specifically, the ends and lids of these which are fundamental to beer packaging.

The Brewers Association (BA) has set out alerting its members about the development impacting the brewing industry and has encouraged breweries far and wide across the US to share how they are being impacted.

Speaking about the update to Section 232, BA technical brewing projects director Chuck Skypeck said: “This change could contribute to higher packaging costs and added supply chain complexity. Brewers should review procurement strategies and engage with suppliers to understand potential impacts on cost and availability.”

The US craft beer sector has faced myriad challenges of late and has seen more closures than openings all whilst geopolitical tensions between America and Canada are also shaking up the sector.

To help smaller breweries navigate the headwinds, Skypeck reassured that the BA “continues to monitor developments” around aluminium trade policy and emphasised how it continues to “advocate for the needs of small and independent brewers”.

Skypeck explained: “We will provide updates as more details become available, including any changes in tariff rates, licensing procedures, or country exemptions” but also urged breweries across the country to share their perspective.

He added: “If your brewery is directly impacted, we encourage you to reach out so we can ensure your voice is represented in ongoing discussions with policymakers.”

Aluminium remains the single largest input cost for most breweries’ packaging operations, however, as Skypeck reiterated, the BA “will continue to advocate for fair and transparent trade policies that minimise unnecessary burdens on small and independent breweries”.

Related news

East Coast Canning partners with Meadow

Sunrise invests £100,000 into Curious Brewery

Sierra Nevada's Celly Drippins pours in the UK for the first time