US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports, a measure he heralded as a significant step towards revitalising the American economy.
According to a report by the BBC, Trump signed the order on Monday (10 February), at the Oval Office in Washington.
The tariffs will come into effect from 4 March, with no exemptions anticipated.
Describing the move as a "big event," Trump asserted, "This will make the United States economically strong again."
He emphasised the necessity for steel and aluminium production to be domestic, stating, "Our nation must make steel and aluminium in the United States, not in foreign lands."
The US president is also considering additional tariffs on other industries, notably targeting imports of automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and computer chips. This marks a continuation of his protectionist stance, as he had previously imposed tariffs on steel and aluminium during his first term, arguing that American industries face unfair competition from Asian and European countries.
The United States remains the world's largest steel importer, with key suppliers including Canada, Brazil, and Mexico.
Over 50% of the aluminium imported into the US last year originated from Canada, positioning it as the most adversely affected country under the new tariffs.
Canada's Minister of Innovation, François-Philippe Champagne, condemned the tariffs as "completely unjustified," highlighting that Canadian steel and aluminium contribute significantly to US defence, shipbuilding, energy, and automotive sectors. "This strengthens and secures North America," he remarked.
Meanwhile, Canadian steel producers' lobbying groups have urged their government to adopt immediate retaliatory measures against the United States.
While the tariffs aim to bolster domestic production, experts warn that they could introduce fresh challenges to international trade dynamics.
