28-05-2025
PA Congressman spoke to Schuylkill County business leaders about tariffs
BARNESVILLE, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — It's top of mind for many Americans: Tariffs. On Tuesday, Congressman Dan Meuser spoke to business leaders in Schuylkill County about President Trump's tariff policies.
As the trade landscape under the Trump administration continues to change, some tariff plans have been paused while others remain in place.
Congressman Meuser recognized that while the tariffs have impacted the markets and area industries, he believes that in the end, President Trump's plans will benefit the US.
'The goals with the tariff are to strengthen the American economy but not forsaking our allies in other countries,' Congressman Meuser told 28/22 News.
At a forum held by the Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce, Congressman Meuser spoke to a crowd of business leaders about President Trump's tariff policies as negotiations continue with several United States allies.
'We're now working through trade agreements. And as you've seen, the president has postponed some of the largest tariffs that were initially set to go into effect,' Congressman Meuser explained.
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A 25% tariff imposed by Canada on the US has already hit home at Hydro Extrusions in Schuylkill County, the largest aluminum extrusion plant in the western hemisphere, producing for several markets, including transportation and distribution.
'85% of our aluminum is imported from Canada, you know, so we've been subjected to the tariffs basically since earlier this year,' Hydro Extrusions Vice President and General Manager Mike Hammer said.
Hammer says that while the company supports the administration's agenda to grow manufacturing, it doesn't align with the strategy.
'So it has driven up our prices and our costs and hurt us in terms of losing business both domestically as well as exports,' Hammer added.
As trade talks continue, Congressman Meuser says he remains firm in President Trump's plans.
'The results should be very beneficial and I think will be for the United States,' Congressman Meuser said.
Officials at the European Union are currently pushing for a trade deal with the Trump administration to avoid a 50% tariff on imported goods.
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