Press release
Federal response to aluminum and steel tariffs 

The QFL welcomes Minister Mélanie Joly’s initiative 

Montreal, June 2, 2025 — The Quebec Federation of Labour (QFL) welcomes the decision by the federal government and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly to commit to requiring the use of Canadian steel and aluminum in future infrastructure and defense projects, should President Trump follow through on his threat to increase tariffs in these sectors by 50%. 

“For the QFL, it’s important not to be intimidated by our American neighbor who, since President Trump’s inauguration, has acted unpredictably with his tariff threats. The economy needs stability and predictability in order to grow sustainably,” says QFL President Magali Picard. 

“The new federal government must take a firm stand and prioritize Canadian steel and aluminum in its upcoming projects. Ottawa is moving in the right direction and sending a strong signal to both workers and these key industries,” concludes the President. 

The QFL, Quebec’s largest central labour organization, represents more than 600,000 workers. 

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Translated into English by SEU 800 from the original French-language press release issued by the QFL.