Global steel manufacturer Tenaris has announced a $306 million investment to modernize and expand its operations in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The commitment, unveiled on Friday, will upgrade the company's facility and add 200 new jobs to the existing workforce of approximately 800 employees in the city.
Strengthening Canada's energy sector
Martin Castro, president of Tenaris Canada, highlighted the strategic importance of the investment during a press conference in Sault Ste. Marie. “Our steel pipes have a key role to play in bolstering Canadian energy exports, supporting the world’s increasing natural gas needs,” Castro said. “We are adding another 200 people to our workforce in The Soo, and we want to continue growing our team, providing opportunities for training and development. I believe investments like these not only push Tenaris into the future but also take Canada a step closer to realizing its ambition to become an energy superpower.”
Tenaris is the only Canadian producer of seamless oil country tubular goods (OCTG), which are essential pipes used for drilling and completing oil and gas wells across the country. The company employs about 25,000 people worldwide and has a significant presence in major energy markets across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Local and provincial support
Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker welcomed the investment, noting Tenaris's long-standing role in the local economy. “Tenaris has been a cornerstone of Sault Ste. Marie’s industrial economy for more than 25 years, and this latest investment reflects continued confidence in their local workforce, our community and the future of manufacturing in Northern Ontario,” Shoemaker said. “At a time when many local workers and families are facing economic challenges, Tenaris is once again helping create new opportunities and supporting long-term economic stability.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who also attended the announcement, described the additional funding as “a strong vote of confidence” in the province's workers. He emphasized that the investment would help protect Ontario by building a more competitive and resilient economy. “Our government will continue to stand up for workers in industries impacted by tariffs both here in Sault Ste. Marie and across Ontario by diversifying our economy, finding new trading partners and supporting new pipelines, rail lines and other projects that use Ontario steel to open up new markets for Ontario products around the globe,” Ford stated.
Provincial investment and future outlook
The province is also contributing $72 million through the Invest Ontario Fund. Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario, praised the expansion: “Tenaris’ expansion reflects the strength of Ontario’s manufacturing sector, and the vital role Northern Ontario plays in supporting Canada’s energy supply chain. Invest Ontario can help the company navigate programs, connect with partners and coordinate across government. We are pleased to support Tenaris as it looks to grow its operations and continue creating jobs in Northern Ontario.”
The investment underscores the growing importance of domestic steel production for Canada's energy independence and economic resilience. Tenaris's expansion in Sault Ste. Marie is expected to enhance the region's industrial capacity and provide long-term employment opportunities.
