Cleveland-Cliffs, a major player in the North American steel industry, is set to welcome several prominent U.S. officials to its Coatesville, Pennsylvania steel mill on October 11, 2024. The visit will include United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan, along with Bernie Hall, the Director of District 10 of the United Steelworkers. This event highlights the critical connection between the steel industry and national security, particularly in light of recent tariffs imposed on steel and other imports from China.
The invitation to government officials comes in the wake of the USTR's final determination regarding increased Section 301 tariffs on imports of steel, electric vehicles, and various manufacturing components from China. This decision aims to address unfair trade practices that have been detrimental to American industries. Additionally, the USTR is currently investigating the Chinese shipbuilding sector, prompted by a petition from the USW and allied labor organizations.
Cleveland-Cliffs' Coatesville facility specializes in producing advanced steel plate, which is essential for both military and commercial shipbuilding sectors. The production of this steel plate is not only vital for domestic manufacturing but also plays a significant role in ensuring the United States maintains its competitive edge in critical infrastructure.
Lourenco Goncalves, Chairman, President, and CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs, expressed enthusiasm about the visit. He stated, “It is our honor to host Ambassador Tai, Acting Secretary Su, and Congresswoman Houlahan at Cleveland-Cliffs Coatesville. We look forward to demonstrating the strong working partnership between Cleveland-Cliffs and the USW that enables the production of advanced steel plate demanded by the U.S. military, the commercial shipbuilding industry, and numerous other critical infrastructure sectors.”
Goncalves emphasized the importance of the steel industry in the context of U.S. economic stability and national security, underscoring that the collaboration between Cleveland-Cliffs and the USW is essential to achieving these goals.
The steel industry is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, providing materials essential for various sectors, including defense, construction, and manufacturing. The recent tariff measures are part of broader efforts to protect American steel producers from unfair competition and to ensure that domestic production remains viable. By hosting U.S. officials, Cleveland-Cliffs aims to reinforce the message that a robust steel industry is critical for national security and economic resilience.
The visit will feature a fireside chat led by Lourenco Goncalves with the visiting dignitaries, which will be live-streamed on Cleveland-Cliffs’ YouTube channel. The program is scheduled for October 11 at 11:00 a.m. ET, and a replay will be available afterward for those who cannot attend the live event.
The event will include notable speakers:
- Katherine Tai: United States Trade Representative
- Julie Su: Acting Secretary of Labor
- Chrissy Houlahan: U.S. Representative (PA-6)
- Bernie Hall: USW Director, District 10 (Pennsylvania)
- Lourenco Goncalves: Cleveland-Cliffs' Chairman, President, and CEO
