Canadian metallurgists urge government to protect jobs amid US tariffs

The sectoral trade union emphasizes the need to develop an industrial strategy for the country

Canadian union United Steelworkers (USW) is urging the government to take immediate action to protect jobs, incomes, and supply chains. This is stated in the relevant statement by the USW.

According to the statement, more than 20,000 members of the USW are employed in the steel and aluminum production sectors. The tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump have a direct impact on them.

“Several layoffs have already been reported, and at a number of plants, work-sharing agreements have been reached to minimize job losses. The consequences are also being felt in the forestry, automotive, and manufacturing sectors,” the statement notes.

From the very first tariff announcements, the USW established a problem-solving team to monitor developments, inform directors, liaise with governments, and coordinate actions with the international union.

Currently, Canadian steelworkers, in particular, are demanding a comprehensive reform of Employment Insurance (EI).

The statement also calls for the development of a robust national industrial strategy to reduce Canada’s dependence on trade with the US. Priority should be given to steel, aluminum, lumber, and materials produced in Canada for all government-funded projects. The union emphasizes the need for a tax incentive to encourage the purchase of Canadian-made goods and the creation of strategic reserves of critical minerals to stabilize demand and ensure supply chain security.

On March 1 of this year, Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum, which was eventually doubled to 50% in June. On August 1, the White House increased import duties on a range of Canadian goods to 35%.

It should be recalled that EU steelmakers criticized the trade agreement with the US over the retention of the 50% tariff on steel. The industry demands fair trade conditions and protection from excessive imports.