Minister of International Trade Teresa Wat has issued the following statement on the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) decision to grant a public-interest inquiry into rebar duties:

“We thank the tribunal for its thorough review of the evidence and recognition that it is in the public interest to proceed with an inquiry on rebar duties and also consider the market conditions unique to British Columbia.

“The Government of British Columbia and the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) are united in our commitment to stand up for B.C. and support competitiveness, particularly where taxpayer dollars are involved.

“We feel a special regional exclusion for British Columbia is warranted because of our unique market conditions. The decision by the CITT to apply duties to imported rebar ignores the reality of the construction industry in B.C., which is dependent on rebar imports to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing. Shipping of a large, heavy product like rebar by rail from Eastern Canada is very expensive and logistically difficult, especially when crossing B.C.'s mountainous terrain. 

“As a result, even with tariffs added, it will not be cost-effective or practical for buyers of rebar in B.C. to source products from Canadian producers, even if these producers could meet B.C.’s rebar needs. This issue should be a concern to every British Columbian, as these costs get passed along to consumers and taxpayers.”

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of International Trade
250 356-9801