Sudbury Remains Unshaken as Ford Leverages Critical Minerals in Trade War

Greater Sudbury appears largely unaffected by the escalating trade war between Canada and the United States, according to reporting from Global News Toronto. While officials in Hamilton and Oshawa have expressed fear over tariffs impacting steel and automotive sectors, Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre stated the city is sheltered because its primary exports—nickel and copper—are not subject to tariffs.

Lefebvre noted that the U.S. relies heavily on Sudbury's capabilities, pointing out that the only operational nickel mine in the U.S., located in Michigan, has its nickel processed in Sudbury. This strategic importance is echoed by Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who recently visited an expansion at Glencore Canada’s Craig Mine. Ford described the industry as an "engine of our economy" and asserted that President Donald Trump "needs [nickel] desperately."

In response to 50 per cent tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various Canadian goods last month, Ford has threatened several retaliatory measures, including cutting off electricity supplies to U.S. states and halting the flow of critical minerals. Lefebvre expressed support for using these minerals as leverage to eliminate tariffs, though he noted that trade uncertainty has hindered some international investment opportunities in Japan and South Korea.

According to Natural Resources Canada, 98,199 tonnes of unwrought nickel valued at $2.4 billion were exported in 2024, with 43 per cent of those exports destined for the U.S. and 15 per cent for the Netherlands. Marie Litalien, president of the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, told Global News Toronto that it is "business as usual" for the municipality, as the city focuses on international relationships and attracting investment.