I would like to thank the chair and the House standing committee for the invitation to speak here today on behalf of Janco Steel.
I've worked in the steel industry for 38 years in a commercial capacity and in my role right now, as a member of the trade subcommittee of the CSPA.
Janco is a steel service centre with production and manufacturing capacity, located in Stoney Creek, Ontario. We employ 325 Canadian workers, have over 600,000 square feet of plant space and serve the North American market. Ninety-nine per cent of the coil and plate we purchase is from the four Canadian steel mills, always. We truly value their partnership.
Traditionally, 30% to 35% of our business was sold into the United States, so you can imagine how challenging the past year has been for us, navigating the landscape of punitive steel tariffs. This buy Canadian policy is welcomed by Janco. In fact, we've already seen some benefits from this policy: an increase in inquiries requiring melted and poured Canadian steel and a general feeling in the market that investment in manufacturing is being supported by the government and industry.
From our perspective, we are navigating an evolving global trade landscape, and the buy Canadian policy can immediately stabilize domestic markets. Canadian manufacturers will now have the opportunity to participate in federal projects where bids will consider the value of using Canadian materials produced by Canadian companies benefiting Canadian workers—a goal we feel is aligned with the country's spirit of standing together, supporting our neighbours and building relationships that will drive demand for Canadian materials and goods.
Canada has the steel production capacity to support this policy, from mill to manufacturer. Where products are not domestically produced, we encourage creative dialogue within the Canadian manufacturing base. Engineered sections and beams made out of domestic coil and plate are a notable example.
Our steel industry is under attack. We need support, and this policy is a strong step forward. Buy Canadian is a logical and necessary policy. Without a strong, healthy steel industry, our country's sovereignty is threatened.
Thank you.