As the heat of summer bakes Maryland, Christmas-themed metal containers are being stamped into shape at Independent Can’s factory in Belcamp. But behind the festive tins lies a mounting crisis. President Donald Trump’s recent decision to reimpose and double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum is wreaking havoc on the family-owned manufacturer and others like it.
Rick Huether, CEO of Independent Can, has worked in the company since he was 14. Now 73, he remains committed to preserving the near-century-old business. But the Trump administration’s tariffs 25 percent initially, now raised to 50 percent have disrupted operations significantly.
“We’re living in chaos right now,” Huether told AFP, expressing frustration over unpredictable tariff policies and shrinking access to essential raw materials.
The crux of the problem lies in tinplate, a steel product coated with tin to prevent corrosion. It’s the backbone of the company’s production, used to make containers for cookies, coffee, dried fruits, and more. Yet, American production of tinplate meets only about 25 percent of demand, forcing Independent Can to import approximately 70 percent of its steel.
Although Huether supports strengthening domestic manufacturing, he criticized Trump’s approach as inconsistent and damaging. Previous tariffs contributed to the closure of one of the company’s Iowa plants during Trump’s first term. Now, with the steep cost hikes, Huether anticipates raising prices by over 20 percent—an unwelcome move as some customers have already reduced orders by 20 to 25 percent amid economic uncertainty.
Still, Independent Can is holding off on layoffs, despite the pressure. Huether sees a temporary shift as some clients turn to American suppliers, but he remains skeptical about the sustainability of this trend, citing how customers reverted to Chinese imports once pandemic disruptions eased.
To ensure stability, Huether advocates for longer-term commitments. “Today if people want to come to us, we’ll take them in,” he said. “But we need to have a two-year contract.”
As the company battles high tariffs, Huether clings to cautious optimism. “I think that our business will survive,” he said, “but it’s trying to figure out what you’re going to sell in the next six months.”
