Steel Safeguards

In response to global trade developments relating to steel (US section 232 action and EU steel safeguard), McMillan represented Tenaris Canada (for energy tubular products) and Max Aicher (North America) Ltd. (for rebar products) as they sought to have the Canadian government take measures to protect the domestic energy tubulars and rebar industries. Finance Canada initiated safeguard proceedings, in which McMillan represented Tenaris Canada in the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (“CITT”) inquiry.

This was the first Canadian safeguard action in over 10 years. When the CITT declined to impose final safeguards, McMillan participated in the Government of Canada Trade Action Working Group to develop changes to Canadian trade remedy law and policy, which were implemented by September 4, 2019.

Tenaris Canada is the leading manufacturer of pipes and related services for the world’s energy industry and certain other industrial applications.

Max Aicher (North America) Ltd. is a supplier of hot rolled steel bar products to the North American marketplace.

McMillan’s International Trade Group represents provincial, national and multinational organizations in international trade tribunals. The lawyers in our International Trade Group counsel companies ranging from multinationals to small and growing companies located in Canada and around the world. Governments also look to McMillan for assistance with complex legal issues that require an understanding of political sensitivities and the need for a combination of strategic thinking and tactical excellence. Whether revising laws for a country’s entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO), advising on delicate negotiations affecting regulated or trade protected sectors, or counseling government officials on trade rules applicable to major industrial projects, governments frequently put their trust in McMillan’s lawyers.