Premier Scott Moe shared a post on July 16 after meeting with Evraz leadership to discuss steel industry challenges and reaffirm the province’s support for Saskatchewan’s steelworkers. (Premier Scott Moe/X)

By CJME

Tariffs and Trade uncertainty

Steelworkers applaud Ottawa’s move to safeguard local jobs

Jul 17, 2025 | 9:50 AM

A new federal steel policy is being hailed as a big win for Canadian workers, and it could have direct implications for job security here in Saskatchewan.

Following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement of stricter import quotas and new “Buy Canadian” mandates for public infrastructure projects, the United Steelworkers union (USW) says the measures are long overdue and represent a significant step toward strengthening the domestic steel industry.

“These are significant wins for our members,” said Marty Warren, USW National Director in media release on Wednesday. “Mandating Canadian steel in public projects isn’t just good for jobs — it’s good for the environment and for supply chain resilience.”

The new rules will tighten tariff rate quotas on steel imports. For countries without a free trade agreement (FTA), import quotas will be capped at 50 per cent of 2024 levels. Counties with FTAs will remain at 100 per cent of 2024 volumes, with a 50 per cent tariff applied to excess imports. The federal government is also committing to $1 billion through the Strategic Innovation Fund to help close domestic steel production gaps and improve supply chain resilience.

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Premier Scott Moe also weighed in on the news, meeting with leadership from Evraz North America, the Regina-based steel producer, to discuss the future of the province’s steel sector amid trade tensions.

“For almost seven decades, Evraz’ steel mill operations have been a cornerstone of Regina and Saskatchewan’s manufacturing sector,” Moe posted on social media. “In the face of tariffs and trade uncertainty, our government will always stand up for Saskatchewan’s steelworkers and their families.”

The Premier’s comments signal provincial support for the industry, which has been a critical employer and contributor to infrastructure across North America.

The USW, which represents over 225,000 Canadian workers, has been pushing for tougher import rules and greater support for domestic steel production for years. Wednesday’s announcement, the union says, is the result of sustained pressure from workers and industry advocates.

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