U.S. President Donald Trump announced Sunday that he plans to impose 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, affecting Canada, Mexico, and other countries.
The announcement, made on Air Force One while on route to New Orleans, has sparked concern among Canadian steel producers.
Catherine Cobden, president and CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA), expressed deep concern over the planned tariffs.
She highlighted the significant disruptions caused by similar tariffs in 2018, which harmed both the American and Canadian economies.
Cobden emphasized the close integration of the Canadian and U.S. economies, noting that $20 billion worth of steel is traded between the two countries and that 40 per cent of Canada’s steel imports come from the United States.
Cobden called the tariffs baseless and unwarranted, urging the Canadian government to take immediate retaliatory measures to protect the industry and its workers.
She stressed the importance of aligning Canada’s trade policies with the U.S. and combating unfair trade practices.
“The target of Canadian steel and aluminum is completely baseless and unwarranted,” Cobden said.
“We must retaliate immediately.”
