Stelco cites foreign imports, 58% plunge in U.S. steel exports to defend layoffs
Stelco says tariffs and foreign imports cut demand by more than 1 million tonnes a year, as government lawyers review its response.
- Stelco announced plans to lay off up to 500 workers at its Hamilton Works and Lake Erie Works facilities, prompting Industry Minister Mélanie Joly to demand an explanation of how the company will honor binding employment commitments made by owner Cleveland-Cliffs.
- In an October 9 letter, Stelco president Paul Simon argued that declining exports to the United States and intense foreign competition have dramatically altered market conditions, rendering previous employment promises unenforceable.
- Exports of cold-rolled and coated steel to the United States have plunged 58 per cent compared with pre-trade-war levels, with shipments falling by 226,000 tonnes in the second quarter of 2026 versus the 2024 quarterly average.
- On October 10, Industry Minister Joly countered that Stelco's legally binding employment commitments remain in force despite changing market conditions, with government lawyers reviewing the company's response for potential legal action.
- Simon noted that weaker domestic demand and foreign steel imports have shrunk the market for products made at Hamilton Works by more than one million tonnes annually, roughly twice the facility's historical production capacity.
30 Articles
30 Articles
According to Stelco, its steel exports to the United States have fallen by 58% since tariffs, while foreign steel weakens local production.
Stelco cites foreign imports, 58% plunge in U.S. steel exports to defend layoffs
In a letter to Canada's industry minister, Stelco president Paul Simon says Canadian exports of those steel products to the United States fell by 226,000 tonnes in the second quarter
Stelco indicated that Canadian exports of cold-rolled and coated steel to the U.S. fell by 58% from pre-tariff levels, while continued imports from abroad put pressure on domestic producers.
Stelco announced at the end of last month its intention to lay off up to 500 employees.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 70% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

















