Canadian steel and aluminum face new tariff threat from Trump

"Let's be clear: Canadian steel and aluminum support crucial sectors in the U.S., from defense to shipbuilding and automotive industries. They enhance the competitiveness and security of North America. We will continue to defend Canada, our workers, and our industry," Champagne wrote on the X platform.

Donald Trump announced that on Monday, he will impose a 25% tariff on foreign steel and aluminum, as well as additional tariffs on goods from other countries. He also mentioned that in the coming days, he will increase tariffs on imported products from other nations to match those imposed on American products. Furthermore, Trump reiterated his interest in making Canada the 51st state of America.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is currently in Paris for a summit on artificial intelligence starting Monday. According to media reports, after Sunday's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, journalists asked Trudeau about Trump's announced tariffs on Canadian steel, but he did not respond.

Meanwhile, Quebec Premier François Legault wrote on the X platform on Sunday that "the Trump administration is threatening to attack the aluminum and steel industries, which the U.S. heavily depends on." "Quebec exports 3.2 million tonnes of aluminum to the U.S., meeting 60% of their needs. Would they prefer to source from China?" Legault speculated.

According to reports, about 90% of all Canadian aluminum production, approximately 3.2 million tonnes, takes place in the province of Quebec. Canada is the fourth-largest aluminum producer in the world. CityNews reports that around 770,000 tonnes of aluminum are produced in the U.S., which is nearly five times less.