Washington, D.C. — 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, particularly injection molding machines, many of which are sourced from overseas, though production continues in the U.S. 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.
Click here to read the full analysis on the PLASTICS blog.
The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) supports the entire plastics supply chain, including Equipment Suppliers, Material Suppliers, Processors, and Recyclers, representing over one million workers in our $519 billion U.S. industry. PLASTICS advances the priorities of our members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability and providing essential products that allow for the protection and safety of our lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members, and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry, more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.
