The following analysis was provided by NCBFAA Legislative Advisor Nicole Bivens Collinson of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.

Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. (ST&R) notes that today President Trump posted on Truth Social that he intends to increase the tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum by another 25% for a total of 50%, effective tomorrow, March 12, 2025.

The increase is in response to Canada’s very high tariffs on U.S. agricultural products, specifically mentioning the tariffs on U.S. dairy. It is unclear whether Canada’s removal of those agricultural tariffs would lead Trump to lower these steel/aluminum tariffs.

He further threatens that if these tariffs, AND other long-term egregious tariffs are not removed, on April 2, 2025, he will impose additional tariff measures that will shut down Canada’s automotive industry.

Finally, he is prepared to declare a national emergency regarding electricity in areas impacted by Canada’s increase in electricity costs for U.S. states.

Please note that so far, we only have this post. We need to wait for the executive order and the Federal Register notices to be issued for details. We will provide more information as it becomes available.

RIM will continue to closely monitor this evolving situation and provide updates as necessary. Please reach out to your RIM representative should you have any further questions.