Features

China opens WTO dispute with Canada over steel, aluminum

Written by Ethan Bernard

August 20, 2025

China has requested dispute consultations with Canada at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding Canadian measures on imports of Chinese steel and aluminum.

Specifically, China has taken issue with Canada imposing a “surtax in the form of tariff-rate quotas.” These are related to the importation of certain steel goods from the country’s non-free trade agreement partners, including China, according to the WTO.

The matter also includes a surtax on certain steel and aluminum goods that contain steel or aluminum originating from China.

The organization noted that the request was circulated to WTO members on Aug. 20. The request for consultations formally begins a dispute.

Both parties will have the opportunity to discuss the matter and attempt to find a satisfactory solution without proceeding to litigation.

If consultations have not resolved the dispute after 60 days, “the complainant may request adjudication by a panel.”

For background on Canada’s actions, click here.

Ethan Bernard

Ethan Bernard is managing editor for Steel Market Update. He previously worked for American Metal Market as a copy editor in the New York office for two years, starting in 2008. Later, he copy edited AMM’s monthly magazine on a freelance basis from 2015 until 2017. With experience in financial copywriting and textbook publishing, he holds a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and an MFA. in Creative Writing from New York University. He can be reached at ethan@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-759-7871.

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