“Steelworkers in Hamilton Fear Impact of Trump’s Tariffs”

Amid the threat of new 50 percent tariffs on various Canadian products by U.S. President Donald Trump, the president of a steelworkers union in Hamilton expressed concerns about the impact on the industry.

Ron Wells, president of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 1005, mentioned that the existing tariffs have already impacted Canadian steel sales to the U.S., potentially leading to higher costs of living and affecting sales across various businesses that rely on steel producers.

Although 50 percent tariffs on steel have been in effect since last year, the exact implications of Trump’s recent announcement regarding an increase in tariffs for steel, automobiles, and auto parts as of January 1 remain unclear.

Hamilton is home to two major primary steel producers in Canada, ArcelorMittal Dofasco and Stelco, along with numerous fabricators.

Wells noted a significant slowdown in business since the tariffs were implemented, affecting around 620 workers represented by his local at Stelco.

• Ottawa’s counter-tariffs find broad support in Canada as businesses brace for trade war impact

Recent U.S. tariffs on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods have further exacerbated the situation after failed trade negotiations between the two countries. Prime Minister Carney announced that Canada would retaliate with tariffs starting September 8.

Chamber CEO Highlights Business Struggles

Addressing the current challenges, Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath emphasized the stress faced by the city, known for its steel and manufacturing industry and significant agricultural sector, due to the uncertain future ahead.

Greg Dunnett, CEO of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, described the city as one of the hardest-hit communities, requiring substantial support and investment to overcome the economic impact.

Expressing the urgency of the situation, Dunnett stated, “We are definitely suffering.”

• What tariffs are still in place? Tracking the Canada-U.S. trade war

Efforts to seek insight from Cleveland-Cliffs, the owner of Stelco since July 2024, on the impact of current and potential tariffs on its Canadian operations did not yield a response by the time of publication.

In a recent earnings call, Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves expressed concerns about Stelco’s performance and the risk to the competitiveness of its galvanizing lines in Hamilton without additional measures to ensure fair trade practices in Canada.

Wells expressed unease over the implications of the company’s remarks on preserving unionized jobs in Canada, noting the worrisome nature of the comments.

Stelco also operates in Nanticoke, Ontario, situated along Lake Erie.