Asturex and the consultancy firm Demos Global Group are analyzing the impact of the temporary 10% surcharge on the US market. Although Asturias' exposure is moderate, the technical report warns of possible increases to 15% before July.
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The US currently applies a temporary 10% ad valorem surcharge to products originating from European Union under the Section 122, valid until July 24, 2026. Asturex y Demos Global Group They monitor this scenario to prevent cost overruns in industrial exports.
Technical analysis of current tariff regulations
Given the proliferation of reports about the tightening of trade policy United States, Asturex has conducted a thorough analysis together with Tania Martínez, president and CEO of Demos Global GroupThe specialist in regulations and access to the US market clarifies that, as of March 1, 2026, there is no generalized tariff of 15%, but rather a temporary 10% levy.
This surcharge is applied directly to the tariff Most Favored Nation (MFN) in force. It is essential to emphasize that this measure is not cumulative with the tariffs already established under the Section 232, which specifically affect strategic sectors such as steel, the aluminum and automotiveAccording to the report, the maximum legal duration of this surcharge is 150 days, setting the deadline at July 24, unless a formal extension is granted.
Sectoral impact and risk scenarios
The technical report identifies three possible scenarios for the first half of 2026. While the current scenario maintains the rate at 10%, there is a latent risk of an increase to 15%, a figure legally viable within the US legal framework but not yet formalized. Furthermore, the EU-US Political Agreement 2025The system, which envisioned a reference level of 15% for most goods, is currently going through a phase of "political tension" and is pending institutional consolidation.
Regarding the territorial impact, the exhibition of Asturias Exports to the North American market account for approximately 4% of total exports. However, the concentration in specific niches increases vigilance in the following sectors:
- Metallurgy and metal processing.
- Product Industry chemical.
- Manufacturing of equipment goods.
| Concept | Situation as of March 1, 2026 | Validity / Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Current Surcharge (Section 122) | 10% ad valorem | July 24, 2026 |
| Risk Scenario | Increase to 15% | Pending formalization |
| Asturias Export Exhibition | 4% of the total exported | Sectors: Metal, Chemical, Capital Goods |
| Relationship with Section 232 | Non-cumulative | Previous tariffs remain in effect |
Strategic recommendations for exporting companies
From Asturex Companies with interests in North America Conduct ongoing technical monitoring. The main warning is to "review the tariff classification of your products" and perform a sensitivity analysis on the impact these tariffs have on international contracts and final profit margins.
Likewise, it is vital to maintain direct and fluid contact with importers in EE. UU to coordinate possible product exclusions that are already covered by current regulations.
Key points and frequently asked questions about US tariffs 2026
Does the new 10% surcharge apply to steel and aluminum tariffs?
No. According to the technical report, the surcharge on the Section 122 It does not add to the tariffs already in place under the Section 232 (steel, aluminum, automotive), which are maintained independently.
How long will this measure be in effect?
The regulations establish a maximum duration of 150 days, which sets the end date as July 24, 2026, unless the US authorities decide to approve an extension.
Which sectors in Asturias should be most alert?
Although the overall impact is moderate (4% of exports), the metallurgy, chemical and capital goods sectors have the highest concentration of sales in this destination and the greatest risk of being affected.











