Canada said it has formally complained to the World Trade Organization (WTO) about US duty on steel and aluminum imports, after the US yesterday came up with a 25% tariff. The tariffs which took effect March 12, 2025, brought to an end Canada’s exemption, as diplomatic efforts to hold off the measures continued.
The WTO agreed to consult with Canada on its request, which formally starts the process. “Canada insists that these tariffs contravene U.S. international trade commitments.
The United States, under President Donald Trump’s government, has re-imposed these imports to save its dwindling steel industry that from a surging challenge, especially from Asia. While the modest slip still leaves Canada as the dominant supplier of steel to the U.S, Brazil and the European Union trailing closely behind. 
Canadian officials counter that the tariffs are an unfair trade practice aimed at their exports, under threat to the crucial economic ties. After law enforcement evaluation, if Canada and the U.S. cannot get any results within 60 days, the Canada may submit the matter depending of a WTO panle for resolution.
This is the latest in a separate WTO complaint Canada brought on March 4 over previous U.S. tariffs.
The U.S. Chinese trade tensions arise as Mr. Trump, who returned to office on January 20, 2025, sticks with an aggressive trade strategy. The squabble has the potential to wreak havoc on North American supply lines and maintain economic uncertainty, analysts caution.
Everything now hangs in the balance as Canada and the U.S. head into a possible court showdown with billions at risk.
