President Donald Trump has voiced support for a proposed partnership between U.S. Steel and Japan’s Nippon Steel, confirming that the iconic American company will retain its headquarters in Pittsburgh. The announcement, made on May 23, 2025, marks a significant shift in Trump’s earlier stance, which had been critical of the potential foreign acquisition.
Speaking during a press briefing, Trump said the deal would “protect American jobs, preserve a vital piece of U.S. industrial history, and strengthen the domestic steel industry.” He emphasized that U.S. Steel’s identity and operations would remain firmly rooted in the United States.
The proposed collaboration is seen as a strategic alignment, rather than a full acquisition, and comes amid heightened scrutiny of foreign investments in American critical infrastructure. Under the terms under discussion, U.S. Steel would continue to operate independently while leveraging technological and capital inputs from Nippon Steel.
The announcement comes at a time of intensified protectionist policies from Washington, with the administration also announcing a 50% tariff on goods imported from the European Union and threatening a 25% tariff on Apple products manufactured outside the U.S.
Industry analysts note that Trump’s endorsement could pave the way for regulatory approval of the deal, which had previously faced resistance from lawmakers concerned about national security and foreign influence.
The U.S. steel sector has faced global competition and consolidation pressures in recent years. Trump’s administration has positioned the potential U.S. Steel–Nippon partnership as a path to revitalization rather than capitulation.
