U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to double tariffs on steel imports to 50% during a rally in Pittsburgh on Friday. This significant increase from the current 25% is aimed at intensifying pressure on global steel producers and furthering his administration's trade agenda.

"We are going to bring it from 25% to 50% the tariffs on steel into the United States of America, which will even further secure the steel industry in the United States," Trump stated emphatically to a crowd of steelworkers. He added, "Nobody is going to get around that."

The new tariffs are set to take effect next week, according to a post on social media from the White House. This move follows Trump's earlier decision in March to impose a flat 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, a strategy he believes will revitalize American manufacturing.

As a result of these tariffs, the government’s producer price index has reported a 16% increase in the price of steel products. During the rally, Trump mentioned that he had considered a 40% tariff but ultimately decided on the 50% increase due to the preferences of his advisors.

The announcement coincided with a celebration of a partnership deal between Japan-based Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel. Trump assured attendees that U.S. Steel would remain an American company, although specific details of the partnership have not been disclosed. Nippon Steel has expressed approval of the proposed collaboration, but it remains unclear if the deal has been finalized.