Canadian steel and aluminum, enhanced enforcement against nations like China

The resolution advocates for a lasting exemption from Section 232 tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, enhanced enforcement against nations like China that violate trade regulations, and a collaborative strategy between Canada and the U.S. to safeguard and expand union jobs throughout North America.


Canadian Steelworkers participated with thousands of delegates from the U.S. and the Caribbean at the 2025 United Steelworkers union (USW) International Convention, where a resolution promoting fair trade and the elimination of Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods was unanimously passed. As the Trump administration prepares to impose new tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and forestry products, USW members emphasized that "Canada is not the issue.

These tariffs jeopardize hundreds of thousands of quality union jobs, disrupt well-established supply chains, and it is the workers in both nations who will bear the brunt of these costs." "We've faced this situation before. For years, our members have suffered the consequences of poor trade policies—plant closures, layoffs, and billions in unjust duties," stated Marty Warren, USW National Director for Canada. "These tariffs harm workers and communities on both sides of the border. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to fair trade and cross-border unity." Jeff Bromley, Chair of the USW Wood Council, which represents over 14,000 forestry workers in Canada, highlighted the pressing need for action.

"We're not the issue—our goal is to assist," Bromley asserted. "We've supported recovery efforts after the California wildfires and hurricanes in the Carolinas. We are your brothers and sisters, your neighbors, and we want to maintain that bond. We aim to strengthen our relationship." The resolution calls for a lasting exemption from Section 232 tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, stricter enforcement against countries like China that violate trade practices, and a joint Canada-U.S. initiative to protect and expand union jobs across North America.

"Steelworkers know where the real problem lies—and it's not with each other," stated USW International President David McCall. "We are united in fighting against unfair trade practices, and we will not allow any administration to use tariffs to create division among us."