Aluminum Import License Requirement Delayed Until March 29

The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) is delaying the effective date of the final rule regarding filing of Aluminum Import licenses from January 25, 2021 to March 29, 2021.  The delay is due to the White House Chief of Staff’s memorandum concerning “Regulatory Freeze Pending Review” that was issued on January 20, 2021.  Delaying the effective date of the final rule will allow the incoming Administration time to review the final rule and consider any additional comments before implementation.

This delay means that import licenses will not be required for covered aluminum products beginning on January 25, 2021, but will now be required on and after March 29, 2021 unless otherwise announced.

The Aluminum Import Monitoring and Analysis (AIM) system website (https//:www.trade.gov/aluminum) will still be operational and will provide further guidance on licenses already issued as well as the issuance of new licenses during the intervening period. 

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Commerce at aluminum.license@trade.gov.