Following the news on the Canadian Government’s plan to imitate the United States tariffs on Chinese aluminium, steel, and electric vehicles, the Aluminum Association released a statement applauding and welcoming a 25 per cent additional tariff on certain aluminium and aluminium products imported from China.
Although the plan is awaiting public review, the tariffs are estimated to be implemented from October 1 and 15, 2024. This move coming into effect in Canada will mark a significant step towards creating fairer trade practices in the North American aluminium market.
The United States and Canada are employing these additional tariffs, like 25 per cent on aluminium and steel and 100 per cent on electric vehicles, to address the unfair trading caused by the influx of cheap Chinese products, which has impacted domestic aluminium producers.
Charles Johnson, president & CEO of the Aluminum Association, said: “Today’s decision is another example of sensible, targeted trade policy that will help ensure that North America continues to be one of the best places on earth to make aluminium and aluminium products. In the United States alone, aluminium firms have invested more than $10 billion in new and expanded plants, including nearly $200 million just this year. Actions like those announced Today by Canada will ensure that these investments are fruitful – creating jobs and capturing anticipated demand growth in the coming decades. North America boasts some of the cleanest aluminium production in the world thanks to low-carbon smelting in Canada as well as industry recycling efforts and technology advancement. Making more aluminium here is a win for both the regional economy and the environment. By working together with our fellow USMCA countries, we can ensure that the entire region of aluminium production, fabrication and recycling continues to thrive.”
Recently, the Aluminum Association data showed aluminium demand in North America (United States and Canada) grew by 4.3 per cent Y-o-Y during the first quarter of 2024, marking the highest since 2022. In the future, the demand is expected to see a fast track growth, driven by sustainable packaging, safe and efficient vehicles, greener buildings, and vital infrastructure.
The Aluminium Association also highlighted in its report “Pathways to Decarbonization: A North Americal Aluminum Roadmap” that North America’s initiatives towards its 2050 net zero goals are right on track, wherefore the continent enjoys a significant carbon emissions advantage over much of the rest of the global aluminium industry.
Edited By: Debanjali Sengupta
