Quebec Economy Shaken by Trump Tariffs on Steel

The U.S. decision to impose 50% tariffs on Canadian steel in June 2025 has battered a Quebec factory producing bolts and fasteners, triggering hiring freezes, plant closures, and about 140 layoffs. The disruption underscores broader economic anxiety in Quebec about Washington’s trade policy as the province heads toward a provincial election by October 5. Despite the downturn, support for Quebec independence is at roughly 30%, the lowest in a decade, with many residents arguing that remaining in Canada better protects the province’s French language and cultural identity amid the tariff shocks. Trump’s threats to make Canada the 51st state and the volatility of his policy have nonetheless spurred a surge of Canadian patriotism in Quebec, complicating the separatist movement’s dynamics. Analysts say the current economic strain and political reorientation have stalled the momentum of independence, with the sovereigntist Parti Quebecois holding a slim poll lead but a referendum likely on pause. Overall, the narrative across sources is that economic hardship from tariffs has reshaped Quebec’s political calculus, dampening independence fervor while reinforcing the pragmatism of staying within Canada.