Announced on 23 April, the investigation falls under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and will assess whether current import levels could impair national security. According to the Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the inquiry will consider both the volume of imports and the circumstances under which they are entering the US market.
Jeffrey Kessler, Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, stated that “a strong and resilient automotive and truck industry is vital to our national security”, and added that the administration would “carefully assess the risks posed by external threats and supply chain vulnerabilities”.
The public has until 16 May to submit comments and relevant data via the Federal eRulemaking Portal, under docket number BIS-2025-0024.
According to Reuters, the outcome of the investigation could lead to tariffs on imported trucks, buses, and vans. Mexico—currently the largest exporter of commercial vehicles to the United States—could be significantly affected. Imports of medium- and heavy-duty trucks from Mexico have reportedly tripled since 2019. Canada and Japan are also major suppliers.
The Commerce Department is also seeking input on whether the US truck manufacturing industry can meet domestic demand without relying on foreign suppliers. Additionally, it is investigating the impact of what it describes as “foreign unfair trade practices and state-sponsored overproduction” on market prices.
The probe comes amid a broader protectionist push by the Trump administration. Earlier this month, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on light-duty vehicles and announced plans to apply similar tariffs on auto parts by early May.
