Sisi Chan

# Steel sector praises new tariff measures, but says more needs to be done

Introduction: The overall sentiment of the Canadian Steel Industry association towards the recently introduced package of measures to boost the domestic market amid U.S. tariffs has been positive. Prime Minister Mark Carney played a key role in introducing these measures.

New Measures: Recently-announced measures to support steel and lumber producers in finding fresh Canadian markets include tightening of quotas on foreign steel and promising to trim freight rates, thereby facilitating transport across provincial borders.

Industry Response: Catherine Cobden, CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association, appreciates the relief these measures offer, yet underscores the continuing need for further policy enactment to fully counter the unsavory impact of losing U.S market access.

Extension of the Remission Program: Industry discontent emanates partly from Ottawa’s decision to extend its remission program for certain steel importers, which seems to temper Ottawa’s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. steel.

Promise from Federal Government: Cobden is determined to hold the federal government accountable for its promised cessation of the remission program scheduled for the end of January.