#Canada #Montreal #Canadian Aluminium #Aluminium Association of Canada #Finance Canada

Canada’s Aluminium Industry Welcomes New Protective Measures

The Aluminium Association of Canada is expressing positive feedback on Finance Canada’s recent announcement of protective measures aimed at sustaining the country’s aluminium producers and workforce. In a statement made on June 19, 2025, Jean Simard, the President and CEO of the association, highlighted the significance of these new measures, noting the delicate balance they strike in bolstering negotiations while employing adaptive counter-tariffs and reciprocal procurement policies.

Need for Agility in Government Intervention

Simard emphasized the urgency of having agile governmental responses to ensure timely reactions to unpredictable market shifts. The industry is bracing for potential financial impacts and is hopeful that the government's help will evolve swiftly as they navigate the impending 30-day resolution deadline. The market changes possess the potential for significant financial ramifications and swift government action could mitigate detrimental effects on the aluminium sector.

Recognizing the inherent differences between aluminium and steel markets is crucial, and the Government of Canada’s acknowledgment of this has been met with commendation. From Simard’s perspective, it is essential that trade measures reflect such realities to adequately protect the interests of the aluminium industry.

Implementing Tariff Measures

The association is particularly supportive of the Government’s efforts toward reinforcing the aluminium Import Monitoring System, advocating for a “Country of Smelt and Cast” provision. This is aimed at addressing risks pertaining to unfair trade practices within the CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) trading framework. The introduction of these measures, including additional tariffs, is being deemed timely and they hopefully will be implemented quickly to stabilize the sector.

The Aluminium Association is keen on collaborating with governmental bodies and union representatives through the Aluminium Taskforce, aiming to present market insights and a robust basis for decision-making that promotes growth and support for the aluminium sector, its workforce, and local communities.

Overview of the Aluminium Association of Canada

Founded in 1990, the Aluminium Association of Canada represents three leading aluminium producers in the country: Alcoa, Alouette, and Rio Tinto. With operations across nine smelters, primarily located in Quebec, the association provides employment to over 9,500 individuals. The AAC is committed to developing best practices in areas of health, safety, and environmentally responsible production methods aimed at reducing CO2 emissions. For more information regarding the association's initiatives and updates, you can visit their website at aluminium.ca or follow their updates on social media via X @AAC_aluminium.

The advancement of protective measures is a pivotal step for the aluminium industry in Canada, and with the active involvement of both government and industry leaders, the future appears hopeful amid ongoing global market challenges.