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Unifor welcomes the decision by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) to uphold anti-dumping and countervailing duties on silicon metal from China. The decision, announced April 30, 2025, protects hundreds of jobs in Canada, notably at the Silicium Québec plant in Bécancour, where workers are represented by Unifor.
"Maintaining anti-dumping tariffs means standing up for fair trade rules and ensuring that the jobs of Canadian workers are not undercut by unfair imports. It’s a clear message that we will defend our industries and the communities that depend on them," said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
A victory against unfair competition
The Tribunal concluded that, without these measures, silicon metal imports from China would likely resume, and sold at below-market prices, causing significant injury to the Canadian industry.
"Our members in Bécancour can take a breather. This victory demonstrates the relevance of a strong, well-organized trade union movement, capable of intervening in major economic issues", said Daniel Cloutier, Unifor's Quebec Director
A decisive union intervention
As part of this challenge, Unifor officially participated in the process, filing a brief detailing the potential consequences on workers in the domestic industry if tariffs were lifted. Two witnesses were also heard at the hearing on behalf of the union: Richard Beaudoin, President of Local 184, and Simon Lavigne, National Representative. The Tribunal recognized the relevance and credibility of their testimony in its decision.
"It is a great source of pride for me to have been able to bring the voice of our members before the Tribunal, and to have seen our experiences heard and recognized. This decision protects not only our jobs, but also the economic stability of an entire region," said Richard Beaudoin, President of Unifor Local 184.
Unifor remains mobilized to ensure a viable future for the silicon metal industry in Canada and will continue to defend its members against all forms of unfair competition, and to call for responsible and sustainable industrial policies. The renewed anti-dumping duties will be in place for an additional five years.
