Tariff Tracker

It is Thursday, December 11th, and here’s your latest Tariff Tracker:

Manufacturers still face the same core tariff map, but new moves on Nicaragua, clarifications on Swiss and Canadian measures, and fresh threats in fertilizer and autos shape 2026 planning.

Macro and Policy Context: Tariffs, Inflation, and USMCA

Fed Chair Jerome Powell said explicitly that Trump’s tariffs have contributed to the recent inflation overshoot, as effective U.S. tariff rates rose above 16% after de minimis was abolished and new duties stacked on steel, autos, and China imports. A new CNN and NYT look at trade data finds that the tariffs have narrowed the measured U.S. goods trade deficit but largely by compressing imports rather than boosting exports, while keeping input costs higher for manufacturers. In North America, Canadian ministers express cautious optimism that USMCA/CUSMA will survive the 2026 review, with hopes of targeted sectoral tariff reductions, but no concrete easing is on the table yet for steel, autos, or lumber.

Fertilizer, Potash, and Cross‑Border Risk

Trump’s recent threat of “very severe tariffs” on Canadian fertilizer has not yet been translated into concrete U.S. measures, but Canadian producers, potash miners, and farm‑input manufacturers are stress‑testing scenarios in case the U.S. targets nitrogen or potash imports. Analysts note that the U.S. heavily depends on Canadian potash and that broad tariffs could quickly raise costs for U.S. farmers, making such a move economically risky despite the political rhetoric. Mexico, meanwhile, has announced plans to impose up to 50% tariffs on selected Indian exports from January 1, 2026, in response to its own tariff and trade‑balance concerns, adding another layer of uncertainty for firms using Mexico as a manufacturing hub.

Canada Steel: 25% Derivative Tariff and Tighter Quotas

Advisories from Ottawa and tax practitioners reiterate Canada’s new steel‑protection measures: effective December 26, 2025, Canada will apply a 25% tariff on listed steel‑derivative products from all countries, covering over C$10 billion of imports where steel is a major cost component. At the same time, Canada will reduce tariff‑rate quotas on certain steel imports—non‑FTA countries to 20% of 2024 volumes, most FTA partners to 75%—with over‑quota imports subject to a 50% surtax. Canada’s broad counter‑tariffs on most U.S. goods were removed in September, but retaliatory duties on U.S. steel, aluminum, and autos remain, and the temporary “horizontal remission” on U.S. counter‑tariffs for many industrial users will fully expire January 31, 2026 (except for select auto and aerospace uses).

Swiss Tariff Cut: 15% Cap Now in Force

Swiss and Liechtenstein authorities confirm that the U.S. “additional” flat‑rate duty on their goods has been capped at 15% as of December 10, and that the cap applies retroactively to November 14, 2025. This reduction replaces the previous 39% rate and effectively lowers the trade‑weighted tariff on Swiss exports to the U.S. by around 10 percentage points. U.S. manufacturers importing Swiss machinery, precision tools, and specialized parts can now file for refunds on qualifying shipments back to November 14 and should update costing models to reflect lower ongoing duties.

New Section 301 Tariffs on Nicaragua

USTR has announced new Section 301 tariffs on all Nicaraguan imports over human‑rights concerns, with a phased implementation that will ultimately apply a 10–15% duty on the full value of covered goods.

The tariff will be introduced gradually over several years (with rates rising in 2027 and 2028), giving importers some time to adjust sourcing and contracts. For manufacturers that rely on Nicaraguan inputs (textiles, apparel, agro‑processed products, or components) means higher landed costs and an incentive to diversify suppliers before the full rate kicks in.

EU Auto and Machinery Tariffs Loom

As US-EU trade tensions rise, the European Commission is preparing a targeted tariff package against US-manufactured cars and machinery. Brussels indicated the measures could go into effect by mid-August if the US follows through with new tech-sector tariffs. The EU plans to impose duties of up to 25%, which would significantly impact American exporters .

Trump Warns of New Tech Export Curbs Over Digital Taxes

Trump threatened “substantial” new tariffs and semiconductor export restrictions against countries imposing digital services taxes on US tech firms. The warning targets policies that “discriminate against American technology” while giving “a complete pass to China’s largest tech companies.” The threat covers advanced technology and chip exports.

Mexico Bows to Trump Pressure with New China Tariffs

Mexico will implement increased tariffs on Chinese imports as part of its 2026 budget plan, targeting vehicles, textiles, and plastics to protect domestic industries from low-cost foreign goods. The move follows Trump’s complaints that cheap Chinese products are entering the US through Mexico. This represents a major policy shift as Mexico joins the US tariff regime against China, securing continued favorable treatment under ongoing negotiations.

Steel and Aluminum Tariff Expansion Hits Canadian Auto Parts

The US has expanded Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs to include hundreds of additional products, specifically targeting Canadian auto parts that were previously exempt under CUSMA. This represents a “workaround” to tariff more Canadian goods while maintaining the appearance of honoring the trade agreement. Canada has responded by implementing a 25% surtax on Chinese steel and aluminum to prevent dumping, while retaining retaliatory tariffs on US steel, aluminum, and autos.

Canadian Manufacturing Shows Signs of Stabilization Despite Job Losses

While Canada’s manufacturing sector lost 29,400 jobs in Q2 2025 (a 3.5% decline), the S&P Global Canada Manufacturing PMI improved to 48.3 in August from 46.1 in July, indicating slower contraction. Export orders climbed to 44.8 from 41.9, suggesting reduced uncertainty around tariff impacts. However, Ontario unemployment in manufacturing-heavy Windsor surged to 11.2%, and 44% of manufacturers have delayed investments.

Federal Appeals Court Rules Trump’s IEEPA Tariffs Unconstitutional

The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled 7-4 on Friday that President Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose global tariffs. The court determined that only Congress has the constitutional power to levy taxes, including tariffs. However, the tariffs remain in effect until October 14 to allow for a Supreme Court appeal. The ruling affects the majority of Trump’s tariffs imposed on Canada, Mexico, China, and nearly 60 other countries.

EU Proposes Removing All US Industrial Tariffs

The European Commission proposed eliminating tariffs on all US industrial goods, potentially triggering retroactive cuts in US tariffs on European products. The move represents a major concession to Trump’s demands and could significantly boost transatlantic trade if implemented. Details on timing and scope remain under negotiation.

Manufacturing Contraction Deepens—John Deere Cites Tariff Instability

US manufacturing continued its sixth consecutive month of contraction, with executives citing “tariff instability” as a primary concern. John Deere reported significant challenges as tariff-driven cost increases hit both the company’s supply chains and its farmer customers. Fortune analysis shows Trump’s policies are undermining the domestic manufacturers they were supposed to protect.

Canada Eliminates Most US Retaliatory Tariffs Effective September 1/h4>
Canada removed retaliatory tariffs on most CUSMA-compliant US goods starting September 1, leaving only duties on steel, aluminum, and automobiles in place. The move reduces Canadian tariffs to just 313 HS codes, down from over 1,000 previously. This represents the most significant tariff reduction between the two countries since the trade war began.

New Tariff Exemption Framework Takes Effect Today—45+ Product Categories Eligible

Trump’s September 5 executive order granting tariff exemptions to “aligned partners” with reciprocal trade agreements officially takes effect at 12:01 AM EDT. Over 45 categories of goods now qualify for zero import tariffs, including nickel (essential for EV batteries and stainless steel), gold in all forms, pharmaceutical compounds like lidocaine, chemicals, graphite, neodymium magnets, and LED lightbulbs. The exemptions apply to products the US “cannot produce domestically or in sufficient quantities” and align with existing agreements with Japan and the EU.

Canada Maintains Steel and Auto Tariffs Despite Broader Relief

While Canada eliminated most retaliatory tariffs on September 1, duties remain on US steel, aluminum, and automobiles. The remaining tariffs cover just 313 HS product codes, down from over 1,000 previously. Canadian officials indicate these sectors will retain protection until broader trade negotiations conclude.

US Container Imports Surge in August—Stockpiling Ahead of Court Ruling

US container imports increased significantly in August as businesses rushed to stockpile goods ahead of the October 14 Supreme Court deadline on tariff legality. Import volumes rose despite higher costs, with companies frontloading inventory to avoid potential disruptions. However, industry analysts warn the year-end outlook remains dim due to ongoing tariff uncertainty and elevated trade tensions.

Wholesale Prices Fall Despite Tariff Pressures

US wholesale prices unexpectedly declined 0.1% in August, cooling from July’s sharp increase despite widespread tariff implementation. The producer price index drop suggests tariff costs may not be passing through to wholesale markets as quickly as anticipated, though economists warn this could reflect inventory drawdowns and temporary effects rather than sustained trends.

US Companies Report China Sales Decline—Two-Thirds Cite Tariff Impact

A new survey of 254 US companies operating in China found nearly two-thirds report reduced expected revenues for their China operations in 2025 due to Trump’s tariffs. The American Chamber of Commerce in China survey highlights how the 30% tariff rate (extended until November 10) is hurting American businesses’ ability to compete in the world’s second-largest economy. Companies face the dual challenge of higher export costs and Chinese retaliatory measures.

Bank of Canada Cuts Rate to 2.5%—Cites US Tariff Economic Damage

The Bank of Canada reduced its key policy rate by 0.5 percentage points to 2.5% Wednesday, citing risks to the economy from US tariffs and trade policy uncertainty. Bank Governor Tiff Macklem stated: “The Canadian economy is being affected by both US tariffs and the unpredictability of US trade policy. GDP declined by 1.6% in the second quarter.” The bank noted manufacturing job losses and business investment delays as key concerns.

Canada-Mexico Summit Targets Coordinated US Trade Response

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Mexico City Thursday for a two-day mission to improve recently strained ties and seek a common front in crucial USMCA renegotiation talks with the United States. The meeting comes as both countries face pressure from Trump to impose tariffs on China and navigate complex trade relationships. Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem confirmed clear evidence that Trump’s tariffs are causing job losses in Canadian auto, steel, and aluminum industries.

Small Business Tariff Costs Hit $856,000 Annually

Fortune analysis reveals small businesses face average annual costs of $856,000 from tariff policy changes, with only 37% having access to credit to weather the volatility. Eight major tariff adjustments in 12 months have created “policy whiplash” that large corporations can navigate but devastates smaller importers. When Trump eliminated de minimis exemptions, 4 million daily packages lost duty-free status—affecting 92% of all cargo and representing 97% of US importers.

Retail Industry Develops “Tariff Hacking” Strategies to Maintain Consumer Prices

Major retailers are employing sophisticated “tariff arbitrage” strategies using wholesale middlemen and complex supply chain routing to minimize tariff impacts on consumer prices. From luxury goods to mass-market items, distributors are finding creative ways to get consumers closer to wholesale prices despite the 20%+ average US tariff environment. The strategies involve strategic inventory placement, country-of-origin optimization, and alternative shipping routes.

Canada-Mexico Summit Strengthens North American Alliance Against US Tariffs

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum concluded their Mexico City summit with agreements to boost bilateral trade and coordinate responses to US tariff pressures. Both countries are increasing trade with each other as alternatives to US markets, with Carney stating Canada’s “old relationship” with the US is “over.” The leaders pledged closer coordination during upcoming USMCA renegotiations and joint strategies for dealing with Trump’s trade policies.

“Tariff Whiplash” Hits Small US Manufacturers, Credit Constraints Loom

Latest analysis shows small manufacturers pay about $856,000 in extra annual tariff and compliance costs, with rapid “policy whiplash” from 8 changes in the past year. Only 37% of these firms have the credit access to weather ongoing volatility, driving many to reduce headcount, cancel investment, or consolidate.

Stainless Steel Orders Delayed Globally, Supply Chains Shifting:

A new Outokumpu survey of 70 top industrial buyers (combined $430B in annual revenue) finds one in three have paused or delayed stainless steel orders due to global tariff rounds and trade tension, with over half reevaluating suppliers. Automotive, construction, energy, and infrastructure projects are hardest hit, as procurement is forced to diversify and adapt to the unpredictable pricing environment.

Canadian Industrial Sectors Strain Under Escalating US Tariffs and Countermeasures

Canada removed 25% tariffs on most US goods under CUSMA as of September 1, but US duties on Canadian steel, aluminum, copper, and auto parts are expanding. US Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs (now 50% on hundreds more products) are deeply hitting Canadian transformers, railcars, wires, and clean energy equipment. Canada still maintains retaliatory tariffs on US steel, aluminum, and autos, applying pressure as 2026 CUSMA talks approach.

US Imports from China Halve—Southeast Asia and Mexico Gain

Roland Berger analysis shows US imports from China fell by half between January and May 2025, with electronics and industrial machinery dropping over 60% in June compared to January. This decline preceded the April reciprocal tariff regime, as importers scaled back orders anticipating further increases. Meanwhile, shipments from Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Mexico have spiked as companies preemptively diversify away from China.

OECD Warns Full Tariff Impact Yet to Come—Rates Hit 1933 Levels

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) warned Tuesday that while global growth remains more resilient than expected, the complete impact of the US import tariff shock has yet to be realized. The effective US tariff rate on merchandise imports reached approximately 19.5% by the end of August—the highest level since 1933 during the Great Depression. Companies have largely absorbed the shock by reducing profit margins and depleting inventory stockpiles accumulated before tariff announcements. “The comprehensive effects will become evident as companies exhaust inventories and elevated tariff rates continue enforcement,” stated OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann.

Construction Industry Faces ‘Lethal’ Tariff Burden—Materials Up 10-50%

Construction companies report that essential building materials—steel, aluminum, lumber, copper, and stone—now face tariffs ranging from 10% to 50%, creating unprecedented cost pressures. GI Stone’s CEO called potential 25% tariffs “lethal” for her North Side Chicago manufacturing facility, which transforms imported stone into high-end countertops. The effective US tariff rate has reached 17.4%, the highest since 1935, forcing developers to delay projects and absorb significant cost increases.

Canada Removes Most US Retaliatory Tariffs—Steel, Aluminum, Auto Duties Remain

Effective September 1, Canada eliminated 25% retaliatory tariffs on CUSMA-compliant US goods, maintaining duties only on steel, aluminum, and automobiles. The move reduces Canadian tariffs from over 1,000 product codes to just 313 HS classifications. Prime Minister Mark Carney framed the decision as advancing trade talks ahead of 2026 CUSMA renegotiations, though critics argue it represents capitulation to US pressure.

EU-US Trade Deal Implementation—15% Auto Tariffs Retroactive to August 1

The Trump administration issued formal notice Wednesday implementing the US-European Union trade agreement, confirming that auto and auto parts imports will face 15% duties retroactively from August 1. The deal exempts certain pharmaceutical compounds, all aircraft and aircraft parts, and specific natural resources. European automakers can request refunds for excess duties paid above the 15% cap since August. The agreement represents Trump’s preference for bilateral deals over multilateral frameworks.

US Manufacturing Activity Slows Further—PMI Drops to 52.0 in September

The S&P Global Flash US Manufacturing PMI fell to 52.0 in September from 53.0 in August, marking the second consecutive month of deceleration. The slowdown reflects “supply chain disruptions and higher costs tied to Trump-era tariffs,” with new orders and output growth weakening significantly. Export demand softened as global buyers react to US trade policies, while domestic manufacturers face rising raw material prices. Despite high inventories, continued tariff pressure is expected to limit expansion in coming months.

China Soybean Boycott Devastates US Farmers

China has not purchased any US soybeans since May, instead pivoting to massive orders from Brazil and Argentina as the trade war escalates. US soybean export value had previously plunged from $14 billion in 2016 to $3.1 billion in 2018 during Trump’s first term, and farmers now face a similar scenario. The American Soybean Association warns of “panic” among producers as their largest market remains closed.

Tariff Investigations Remain Active—Shutdown Would Not Halt Enforcement

The Trump administration confirmed that tariff probes and collections will continue even in the event of a government shutdown, with Customs and Border Protection operations funded as essential services. Investigations remain underway into medical equipment, robotics, and additional manufacturing sectors—signaling more potential hikes ahead.

100% Movie Tariff Confirmed—Hollywood, Streaming Platforms Brace for Higher Costs

Trump reiterated his plan to enforce a 100% duty on all movies “made outside the United States,” targeting international productions distributed within US borders. The move caused share prices for Netflix and Warner Bros. to drop. The impact is expected to be severe for foreign studios and US streaming services relying on global content, potentially reshaping production and distribution strategies.

Lumber, Furniture, and Cabinet Tariffs Effective October 14—Key Rates to Rise Again in 2026

On Monday, Trump signed a proclamation imposing a 10% tariff on all imported timber and softwood lumber and a 25% tariff on kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered furniture, starting October 14. Crucially, these tariffs will rise even further on January 1, 2026, to 30% on upholstered wooden products and 50% on cabinets and vanities for countries that do not strike an agreement with the US. Canada, the leading exporter of wood to the US, is expected to be severely impacted, as it already faces total tariffs exceeding 35%. Builders and renovators have warned these moves may discourage investment in new construction and raise housing costs.

Global Partners Forge New Trade Alliances

With US tariffs causing widespread impact, countries from Canada to the EU and Asia are ramping up new free trade agreements, seeking to offset export losses and diversify away from American demand. The ripple effects continue to disrupt established international trade routes.

Furniture, Home Goods, and Construction Bracing for Price Hikes

Consumer prices for housing, renovations, and furniture are expected to jump. US and global firms warn of possible supply shortages, longer wait times, and project delays, with small manufacturers and builders facing the greatest risk to their margins and viability as tariffs ratchet up.

Hollywood and Global Studios on Edge as 100% Movie Tariff Enforcement Looms

Trump’s renewed threat of a 100% tariff on movies made outside the US sparked fierce debate across Hollywood and global production hubs, especially in Canada and Europe. The policy’s enforceability and the scope of what constitutes a “foreign-made” movie remain unclear, but studios are bracing for contract renegotiations and higher consumer costs.

Housing Market Hit—Economists Warn of Worsening Crisis

Heavy tariffs on timber, cabinets, vanities, and furniture are expected to push new home and renovation costs higher across the US, with experts warning the moves could worsen the country’s ongoing housing crisis. Construction leaders say tariffs undermine the effects of recent Fed interest rate cuts meant to improve housing affordability.

Truck Tariffs Remain—EU, Japan Secure Some Caps, North American Makers Brace for Pain

A 25% tariff on imported medium and heavy-duty trucks is now in effect. While the White House says EU, Japan, and UK deals cap their exposure at 15% for pharma and trucks, these caps reportedly don’t extend to furniture. Canada and Mexico, both major suppliers under USMCA, face more complex compliance challenges. US truck and truck part manufacturers warn of supply chain bottlenecks as tariff stacking rules (to avoid compounding steel, aluminum, and country-of-origin duties) remain convoluted.

Ontario and Quebec Wood Manufacturers Warn of Layoffs

Wood manufacturing clusters in Ontario are reporting “anxiety and immediate threat of layoffs” as 10–50% duties on lumber, cabinets, and furniture put export competitiveness in jeopardy. New US rules on tariff stacking and origin compliance add to the complexity for Canadian exporters.

Holiday Retailers Brace for Higher Prices, Tariff-Fueled Job Cuts

With supply chain and input cost shocks building, holiday shopping season 2025 is expected to see higher inflation and weaker sales, particularly in hard-hit furniture and electronics. Smaller importers and manufacturers are most vulnerable, as tariffs are passed down lines, crowding out margins and threatening layoffs during the critical peak period.

Pharma Tariffs Now in Effect (October 1)

Trump’s 100% tariff on branded/patented pharmaceutical imports took effect October 1, unless companies are building U.S. manufacturing plants. This represents a major shift in drug pricing policy with companies scrambling to announce U.S. facility construction to avoid the tariff.

Saskatchewan Exports to China Nosedive Amid Tariff Dispute

Saskatchewan exports to China have “drastically fallen” amid Ottawa’s 100% electric vehicle tariff dispute with Beijing. China was Saskatchewan’s second-largest export market, receiving nearly $4 billion in agricultural products last year, but trade has collapsed as the tariff dispute escalates.

Canada-US Trade Talks Resume at High Level

Canadian Privy Council Clerk Michael Sabia and chief trade negotiator Kirsten Hillman resumed high-level talks in Washington with US Commerce Secretary Lutnick and Trade Representative Greer. Canada is focusing on removing Section 232 tariffs on steel (50%), aluminum (50%), autos (25%), and now lumber (10% new, totaling 45% with existing duties). Provincial unity is fracturing as economic pressure mounts.

Timeline Watch: Key Trade Deadlines and Legal Challenges

Global Ripple Effects: India’s Factories, Canada’s Lumber, WTO Fights

India’s garment industry is “ground to a halt” just seven weeks after the 50% US tariff was introduced, affecting jobs and output in major clusters like Tiruppur. Canadian lumber, hit with an extra 10% US tariff this week, faces long-term damage to cross-border supply chains. China expands WTO challenges to reciprocal and sectoral US tariffs, while the US Supreme Court is due to weigh the constitutionality of the entire tariff regime next month.

Small Businesses and Manufacturers Squeezed by Rampant Tariff Costs

Small and mid-sized manufacturers report deepening struggles, with many warning they can’t absorb further cost hikes and face possible closures if consumer demand falters. Tariffs on steel, aluminum, copper, truck parts, and general goods now drive the average US tariff above 18%—a historic high. Sector-specific rates remain extreme: 50% on steel/aluminum/copper, 25% on most vehicles and parts (unless USMCA-compliant), 10% on all lumber, 25% on cabinets/vanities, and 100% on foreign pharmaceuticals unless US-made.

US–Canada Lumber, Cabinet, and Steel Sectors Face Tariff Obstacles

10% US tariffs are now active on Canadian softwood lumber (total duties >45% with anti-dumping/countervailing measures), with a 25% rate on kitchen cabinets/vanities imposed October 1. The Bank of Canada reported ongoing weak investment confidence due to US trade “uncertainty,” and Canada’s government is strategizing responses for its steel and aluminum industries.

Relief and New Complexity for Automakers: Tariffs Extended, New Truck Duties Beg Nov. 1

The White House has extended the US “production offset credit” to 2030 for autos, lowering the effective parts tariff rate (previously set to halve by 2027 and end in 2028). November 1 begins a 25% tariff on all imported medium/heavy trucks and related parts, and a 10% tariff on buses/motorcoaches—with CUSMA (formerly USMCA) countries partially exempt for compliant vehicles. Automakers spent $10 billion in extra tariff costs on cross-border trade this year, prompting more US-based assembly and North American sourcing. After lobbying, Canada and Mexico won limited exemptions.

Compliance and Manufacturing Impact: Autos & Trucks

Starting November 1, nearly all imported medium and heavy-duty vehicles and related parts will face a 25% duty; imported buses will be hit with a 10% rate. USMCA-qualified vehicles can mitigate some costs, but stricter compliance checks and new “privileged foreign status” rules in US Foreign Trade Zones are increasing paperwork and audit risk for manufacturers. Vehicles and buses over 25 years old are exempt.

Manufacturers Begin Raising Prices as Cushion Fades

According to the New York Times, most manufacturers that had previously shielded consumers from tariff costs are now raising prices as global trade tension throttles margins. Companies across furniture, home goods, and auto manufacturing are warning of further increases as materials and parts become more expensive.

The S&P Global Flash PMI survey shows the U.S. economy accelerating despite the shutdown, but business confidence has dropped to its lowest in three years due to tariffs and supply chain instability.

Truck and Bus Tariffs to Take Effect in One Week

The 25% tariff on imported medium and heavy-duty trucks and the 10% tariff on buses and motorcoaches will begin November 1, applying to all non-USMCA countries. Analysts say the moves will raise average North American truck prices by 6–9% by Q1 2026, with automakers like Paccar (Kenworth, Peterbilt) already reporting Q3 losses of $75 million due to raw material tariffs.

Canada Shifts Focus: “Decoupling from the U.S. Begins Now”

In a defiant evening address, Carney said the “decades-long project of integration” between Canada and the U.S. economy “is now over”. Ottawa confirmed immediate plans to boost exports to Europe, Asia, and Latin America while expanding subsidies for domestic manufacturers hurt by tariffs and trade risks. Canada’s Finance Ministry is also exploring countermeasures on U.S. agricultural equipment, wood products, and finished autos should Trump escalate.

Ottawa’s New Limits on Steel Imports/h4>
In response to sustained U.S. tariffs and industry stress, Ottawa has announced new measures to limit foreign steel and support domestic producers. Canada will:

–Tighten tariff rate quotas on foreign steel, capping imports from non–free-trade partners at 20% of 2024 volumes with 50% surtaxes above that level, and cutting most FTA-partner quotas to 75%.

–Introduce a 25% tariff on a range of steel-derivative products such as wind towers, prefabricated structures, wire, and fasteners from late December.

–Deploy roughly C$1 billion in loan support for lumber and related industries, and extend targeted remission for manufacturers that still rely on imported steel until January 31, 2026.

These steps are meant to shield Canadian mills from import surges and push buyers toward domestic steel, but manufacturers warn of higher input costs and tighter sourcing options.

Algoma Steel Layoffs Highlight Canadian Tariff Fallout

Algoma Steel in Sault Ste. Marie has issued about 1,000 temporary layoff notices, explicitly citing reduced demand and competitive pressure linked to U.S. steel tariffs and global oversupply. The company points to the combined effect of 50% U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel, soft prices, and customer uncertainty as key reasons for cutting shifts and output. Regional leaders warn that the layoffs underscore how deeply U.S. tariff policy is reverberating through Canadian heavy industry and local manufacturing ecosystems.