Canadian wire maker blames tariffs and demand for layoffs

MPG Canada operates three businesses: Ivaco Rolling Mills, a wire rod mini-mill in L’Orignal, Ontario; steel wire manufacturer Sivaco, and steel fastener manufacturer Infasco. Both Sivaco and Infasco have operations in Ontario and Quebec.

Citing anticipated declines in demand and production directly related to the tariff and trade uncertainty, the company said these actions are necessary.

“These measures will help maintain the majority of MPG Canada’s footprint and workforce while reacting to the impact that these threats are already having on the company’s demand for its products destined directly and indirectly, via our Canadian customers, to U.S. customers,” it said in a statement.

The tariff threat has combined with a soft market, weak demand, and increasing unfair trade and is “having serious impacts on the demand for MPG Canada products.”

MPG Canada President Matt Walker stressed the need for government action.

“The Canadian government must be prepared to react quickly to safeguard the long-term viability of Canadian steel product manufacturers, and the collective job security of our employees,” he said.