Media Release
Ontario Chamber of Commerce Sounds Alarm on U.S. Steel and Aluminum Tariffs: Jobs & Economy at Risk
February 12, 2025(TORONTO – February 12, 2025) –Today, Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, released the following statement following President Trump’s announcement of 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum:
“This announcement is a serious blow to Canada’s steel and aluminum industries, our workers, the communities they support and our economy. Canada’s 9,500 aluminum workers supply essential materials to over 700,000 American manufacturing jobs, driving $228 billion in U.S. economic output. With 90% of Canadian steel exports destined for the U.S., these tariffs will disrupt supply chains, harm North American manufacturers, and put thousands of jobs at risk on both sides of the border.
“History has already shown us the consequences of such measures. When similar tariffs were imposed in 2018, Canadian steel exports to the U.S. plummeted by nearly 38%. The result? Higher costs for businesses and weaker competitiveness.
“Canada and the U.S. have long been partners in a deeply integrated trade network that supports jobs and prosperity in both countries. Now, more than ever, we must work with all levels of government and U.S. business allies to restore stability, defend our industries, and reinforce the principles of fair and open trade. The stakes are too high for anything less.”
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About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada’s largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non-profit advocacy and member services organization representing a diverse network of 60,000 members. The OCC convenes, mobilizes and empowers business and local chambers in pursuit of its purpose: to bring inclusive and sustainable prosperity to Ontario’s businesses, workers, and communities.
For more information, please contact:
Andrea Carmona
Senior Manager of Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
andreacarmona@occ.ca | Mobile: (647) 234-0255