U.S. tariffs push Ottawa to invest more in Canadian steel, aluminum projects [Video]

Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne speaks during a news conference on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 in Ottawa. Champagne says he’s directing his department to prioritize investments in projects that use mainly Canadian steel and aluminum. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne directed his department on Wednesday to prioritize investments in projects that primarily use Canadian steel and aluminum — part of Ottawa’s reply to the Trump administration’s trade war.

Champagne said the move is in response to the “unfair and unjustified” 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminum levied by U.S. President Donald Trump the day before.

Canada responded to Trump’s steel and aluminum levies with 25 per cent tariffs on $29.8 billion worth of American goods, which took effect just after midnight Thursday.

Champagne said Canadian steel and aluminum support vital U.S. industries, including defence and automotive manufacturing.

“They are also essential for securing …