TORONTO — Concerns are mounting regarding the United States' recent decision to expand its tariffs on steel and aluminum. The U.S. has added 407 new product categories to its existing 50 percent tariffs, which took effect earlier this week. This expansion affects a wide range of items, from bulldozers to furniture, increasing costs for businesses looking to sell in the U.S. market.

Catherine Cobden, president of the Canadian Steel Producers Association, stated that this move represents another setback for the integrated Canada-U.S. economy. She emphasized that it will significantly impact the manufacturing of steel-containing products in Canada that are intended for the U.S. market. Products now subject to the additional tariffs include cutlery, propane tanks, air conditioners, and agricultural equipment such as tractors.

In a statement released on Thursday, Cobden urged Canada to respond by imposing a 50 percent tariff on all U.S. steel entering Canada. She also called for the termination of an “ill-advised” reprieve granted in April on U.S. steel used in manufacturing and processing.

Hamilton, Ontario, Mayor Andrea Horwath expressed her dismay over the situation, describing the U.S. government's actions as an “underhanded move to quietly expand U.S. tariffs.” She indicated that this development is particularly devastating for her city. Horwath has reached out to both provincial and federal governments, urging them to take action in response to the new tariffs.