As U. S. President Donald Trump threatens to impose new 50 per cent tariffs on various Canadian goods, the leader of a Hamilton steelworkers union describes the situation as “concerning” for those working in the industry.
According to United Steelworkers (USW) Local 1005 president Ron Wells, tariffs have already negatively impacted Canadian steel sales to America. He mentioned to CBC Hamilton on Monday that further tariffs could drive up living costs and widely affect sales at other businesses that rely on steel producers.
Since last year, there have been 50 per cent tariffs on steel, so it’s unclear what Trump meant when he stated on social media that these rates would rise to 50 per cent starting Jan. 1 for steel, automobiles, and auto parts.
Hamilton hosts two of Canada’s largest primary steel manufacturers – Arcelor Mittal Dofasco and Stelco – along with numerous fabricators.
Wells, whose local union represents around 620 workers at Stelco, reported that business has been “very slow” since the tariffs were implemented.
This past Saturday saw the start of 50 per cent U. S. tariffs affecting about $28 billion worth of Canadian products after trade discussions between both nations fell apart. Prime Minister Carney indicated that Canada will introduce retaliatory tariffs against the U. S. beginning Sept. 8.
Chamber CEO states businesses are ‘suffering’
In a statement released on Aug. 22, Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath expressed that “as a steel and manufacturing city with a significant agricultural sector, we know the uncertainty ahead will be stressful for many Hamiltonians.”
“I will keep advocating for our federal and provincial partners to support Canadian workers and industries so Hamilton businesses can get the backing they need during this challenging time,” Horwath added.
Greg Dunnett, CEO of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, noted Monday that the city is “one of the most negatively impacted communities,” highlighting a need for assistance and investment.
“We are definitely suffering,” Dunnett remarked.
CBC Hamilton reached out to Cleveland-Cliffs, which acquired Stelco in July 2024, regarding how current and potential tariffs might impact its operations in Canada but did not receive any response before publication.
During a July 23 earnings call, Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves mentioned that Stelco was “lagging” and warned that “without further measures to protect fair trade in Canada, our galvanizing lines’ future competitiveness in Hamilton is at risk.”
Wells expressed hope that the company would uphold commitments made to maintain unionized jobs in Canada while adding: “Those comments are worrisome.”
Stelco also operates out of Nanticoke, Ont., located along Lake Erie.
WATCH | Ford reacts to Trump’s comments:
‘I don’t respond to a dictator like President Trump’: Ford amid Canada-U. S. trade war
Premier Doug Ford labeled U. S. President Donald Trump a ‘dictator’ and said he can ‘kiss my ass’ during a news conference held in Hamilton as tensions from the Canada-U. S. trade conflict continue.
The people working in the steel industry have been navigating changes due to U. S. trade policies for more than a year now.
Speaking in French on Monday, Carney informed reporters that Americans aim to undermine Canada’s auto, steel, and aluminum sectors by leveraging unfair negotiation tactics.
Pursuing similar sentiments at his news conference in Hamilton, Premier Doug Ford pointed out Ontario could either push back or witness its manufacturers “bleed out.”
Citing ‘economic pain,’ Ford promises more support
Ford mentioned Monday that although retaliatory tariffs mean Canadians may pay more for certain products; he supports this strategy because it could help turn Americans against Trump’s trade policy.
“This won’t be easy,” Ford shared at a Stoney Creek housing development site. “We must endure some economic pain resulting from this fight.”
Earlier today he spoke with workers at Arcelor Mittal Dofasco and conveyed his message was consistent across all workers within Ontario: “No matter what President Trump sends our way; we’ll have your backs.”
To aid affected workers; one approach involves expanding eligibility criteria for its Protect Ontario Financing Program aimed at providing loans to businesses impacted by tariffs;
Ford also expressed hope Ottawa would contemplate further restrictions on foreign steel imports while relaxing emissions regulations applicable to manufacturers like those within the steel sector.
He suggested municipalities alongside businesses should prioritize purchasing Ontario-made goods.
Ford reiterated previous remarks stating Trump could “kiss my ass.”
He called Trump both an aggressor and a “loser,” insisting yielding quietly won’t suffice.
NDP leader wants Legislature reconvene
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles urged Ford needs “to get his ass back” into Queen’s Park promptly towards passing emergency tariff relief measures;</
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Dunnett alongside Wells both supported Carney’s decision walking away from trade talks during their conversation with CBC Hamilton regarding ongoing concerns over operations related specifically toward tariff impacts faced by firms operating within Canada’s borders as they seek protection amidst increasing pressures stemming from fluctuating trading conditions surrounding their respective markets given broader economic environments brought forth through changing political landscapes impacting commerce overall across industries nationwide effectively hindering growth opportunities significantly leaving many players struggling just trying find footing again while grappling ever tighter margins competing effectively based fluctuations rapidly shifting demand dynamics globally which continue place considerable strain ongoing relationships built upon longstanding partnerships forged through trust mutual benefit regardless circumstances faced recently witnessed firsthand leading collectively reassess strategies moving forward navigate uncertain terrain ahead together collaboratively work enhance resilience sustain livelihoods dependently bridging gaps improving accessibility resources necessary foster thriving ecosystems capable sustaining themselves long term ensuring everyone flourishes despite challenges encountered daily without fail remaining steadfast committed mission purpose driven accomplish goals envisioning future hopeful brighter days forthcoming awaiting eagerly embrace possibilities lie beyond horizon eager embark journey together paving roads progress success achieve great heights reach dreams aspirations shared united front strengthened solidarity purpose perseverance defined unyielding determination unwavering spirit fortitude carrying forward torch illuminating path leading brighter tomorrow filled promise opportunities endless horizons waiting discover adventures unfold along way each step taken counts building foundations shaping destinies lives intertwined hopes dreams aspirations intertwined weaving intricate tapestry resilience tenacity determination unfaltering pursuit excellence lifting others uplifting souls journey never walk alone…
