Trudeau Warns of Job Losses, Economic Harm if US Imposes Tariffs on Canadian Steel, Aluminum

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cautioned on Wednesday that Americans would lose their jobs and the US economy would suffer if the United States imposes tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports.

Speaking to reporters in Brussels, Trudeau reiterated that Canada would counter with retaliatory measures if necessary. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on steel, aluminum, and a broader range of Canadian imports.

In 2018, during his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum amid trade negotiations with Mexico and Canada. Trudeau claimed these measures resulted in the loss of 75,000 US jobs.

"We are emphasizing that there were job losses, significant ones, in the United States the last time they imposed tariffs...and that this will actually compromise growth and prosperity in the United States," he said.

Trump maintains that the measures will support struggling industries in the US. Approximately half of the aluminum consumed in the US is imported, with a substantial portion originating from Canada. In 2024, Canada exported 3.2 million tons of aluminum to the US, exceeding the combined exports of the next nine countries.

Quebec is a major supplier of Canadian aluminum. Premier Francois Legault suggested on Wednesday that Canada consider export tariffs on products like aluminum, where the US depends heavily on Canadian supply.

Federal Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, currently in Washington for discussions with US officials, stated that Canada would not take action until it assessed the administration's specific steps.

"What the Americans have communicated to us privately and publicly is that we have several weeks to work together," he told reporters.