200 Jobs Lost And Counting: Canadian Steel And Aluminum Plants Struggle Under US Tariffs

Kaili Killpack

Tue, Apr 1, 2025, 7:45 AM 4 min read

Canadian steel and aluminum plants are grappling with significant job losses as a result of recent tariffs imposed by the U.S. According to Reuters, around 200 workers have already been laid off, with more layoffs expected in the coming weeks. The tariffs, implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump on March 12, have created a ripple effect across the Canadian metals sector, forcing companies to scale back operations and reduce their workforce.

Marty Warren, national director of the United Steelworkers union, told Reuters that about 200 of his members have already lost their jobs due to the tariffs. Among the affected companies is Canada Metal Processing Group, or MPG Canada, which in February announced a workforce reduction of 140 employees in Ontario and Quebec. The company cited the “threat of incoming tariffs from the United States on steel and steel derivatives” as a key reason for the cuts."

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MPG Canada's reduction includes a mix of permanent layoffs, temporary layoffs, work share arrangements, and retirements. A company spokesperson told Reuters that MPG Canada has also implemented a hiring freeze to help stabilize its financial position. Algoma Steel, another major player in the Canadian steel industry, confirmed that it had laid off about 20 workers and could face additional cuts if it cannot find new Canadian customers.

Scott Noseworthy, a worker at MPG Canada’s Ivaco plant, described the situation as stressful and uncertain. "When Trump imposed the tariffs, it kind of hit us and brought us to a halt," he told Reuters. Noseworthy, who has a young daughter at home, said that the uncertainty about future work is weighing heavily on employees.

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In response to the layoffs and economic strain, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently announced measures to provide earlier access to employment insurance for affected workers. The federal government has also rolled out a multibillion-dollar aid program targeted at businesses and introduced a work-sharing program to help companies manage reduced hours while retaining staff.