Terry Sheehan

Statement from MP Sheehan on implementation of steel tariff

October 22, 2024

When I was first elected nine years ago, Algoma Steel was in bankruptcy and Tenaris Tubes had a handful of people working. The blame was squarely placed on cheap dumped steel that was a result of inaction from the Harper/ Poilievre government. Our government took immediate action in our first year, and each year since to turn the industry around and protect workers. We fought back when Donald Trump put unjustified tariffs on our product, and we have continuously supported modernizing and greening the industry. This has led to the strengthening and growth of the steel industry in the Soo and Canada.

Today the 25 percent tariffs on cheap, Chinese-made steel go into effect adding another layer of steely strength to Canada's trade regime which is the strongest in the world. We are also implementing "melt and pour" rules, which will improve transparency about the source of imported products, and support domestic production.

These new tariffs and rules have been made in consultation and collaboration with Canada's steel producers. “We are moving in lockstep with key international partners to protect Canadian workers and businesses in our steel and aluminum sectors from China’s intentional, state-directed policy of overcapacity and oversupply, which is undermining Canada’s ability to compete in domestic and global markets," said finance minister Chrystia Freeland this week. "Canada is taking decisive action to level the playing field and protect Canadian workers and investments in Canadian industry.”

Our government will continue to work with both steel workers and industry to make sure that the industry never is put in jeopardy like it was when Steven Harper and Pierre Poilievre were in government.