During a visit to Nucor Steel in Auburn, Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., emphasized the urgent need to address challenges faced by the U.S. steel industry, particularly in Central New York.
Schumer highlighted the issue of Chinese steel imports being rerouted through Mexico to bypass U.S. tariffs, adversely impacting local manufacturers such as Nucor Steel in Auburn, Crucible Steel in Syracuse, and Novelis in Oswego. He urged the federal government to close this loophole and curb the influx of unfairly priced steel from China and other non-compliant countries. “China is flooding the market with cheap products, making it unfair for our superior steel mills,” said Schumer.
President Biden recently announced an increase in tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum, raising the rate from 7.5% to 25%. Schumer praised this move but stressed the importance of preventing tariff evasion through Mexico to protect U.S. steelmakers. Nucor Steel’s Executive Vice President Randy Spicer echoed these concerns, noting the long-standing threat to America’s manufacturing base and national security posed by Chinese steel.
Schumer also highlighted his “Build America Buy America Act,” which mandates the use of American-made materials in infrastructure projects, aiming to revive manufacturing in Central and Upstate New York. With new tariffs and legislative efforts, Schumer is committed to leveling the playing field for U.S. steel producers and supporting the region’s manufacturing resurgence as major investments like Micron arrive in Central New York.
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