Diverging Positions on Steel Tariffs
The United Steelworkers (USW), a vocal supporter of steel tariffs to protect domestic jobs, has taken a firm stance against tariffs on Canadian steel. USW President David McCall emphasized the harm such measures could inflict:
“If applied, these extraordinary tariffs leveled on Canada would dramatically harm workers in both our countries. There is no question that we must address the holes in our global trading system, but Canada is not the problem.”
US manufacturers share this sentiment. Jay Timmons, CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers, praised the USMCA’s role in fostering regional economic prosperity during a November event in Canada. Strengthening the trade agreement, he argued, is critical for all three member nations.
Meanwhile, Canada has made efforts to address U.S. concerns, including a commitment of nearly $1 billion for border security initiatives. These moves may temper U.S. tariff threats against Canadian steel.
Rising Tensions with Mexico Over Steel Imports
The situation with Mexico is markedly different. Advocacy groups like the Coalition for a Prosperous America (CPA) accuse Mexico of breaching the USMCA by exceeding agreed-upon steel export limits. Mexican steel shipments to the U.S. have surged dramatically, reaching 472% above baseline levels set in 2019 and projected to hit 700% in 2024.
In response, bipartisan pressure is mounting in Congress. The Stop Mexico’s Steel Surge Act, introduced by the Congressional Steel Caucus in early 2024, aims to reinstate tariffs on Mexican steel imports. Although the bill has yet to progress through the U.S. House Committee on Ways & Means, it has gained significant support.
Interestingly, the USW supports the Surge Act despite its opposition to Canadian steel tariffs. The union’s stance reflects its broader focus on combating unfair trade practices while maintaining strong relationships with allies like Canada.
