Trump tariffs spark ‘exciting time’ for Ohio steel plant as CEO eyes adding jobs, boosting productivity
President Donald Trump’s tariffs are set to benefit an Ohio-based steel mill and its employees, according to JSW Steel USA CEO Robert Simon. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Simon expressed his excitement over the tariff plan, which he believes will increase the company’s utilization rate from 68% to 84% in the next 12 months and beyond.
Simon, who brings over 30 years of experience in the steel industry, praised Trump’s “fair and reciprocal plan on trade,” which aims to create jobs in the U.S. as trading partners move their industries to American soil to avoid tariffs. JSW USA, a subsidiary of India’s JSW Group, operates steel facilities in Mingo Junction, Ohio, and Baytown, Texas.
The CEO highlighted the disparity between U.S. steel manufacturers and their foreign counterparts, noting that American companies comply with strict environmental and safety regulations and pay their employees fairly. In contrast, foreign steel manufacturers often receive government subsidies and can undercut American producers in the market.
Under Trump’s tariff plan, Simon expects the Ohio plant to add at least 100 jobs in the next year. JSW Steel USA is already on track to surpass Trump’s target utilization rate of 80%, with plans to increase from 68% to 84%. The company’s decision to sue the federal government over tariffs on imported steel-slab materials reflects their commitment to producing domestic materials.
Simon emphasized the positive impact of Trump’s policies on Ohio families with a history in the steel industry, who are returning to work as the sector revitalizes under the current administration. JSW USA’s acquisition of the Ohio plant in 2018, after years of dormancy, has allowed them to hire and train a local workforce, contributing to the community’s economic growth.
Trump’s reciprocal tariff plan, which aims to charge foreign countries the same tariffs they impose on the U.S., has been met with optimism by Simon. He praised Trump’s business acumen and swift decision-making, noting the president’s focus on creating jobs and boosting American industries.
In a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump discussed trade relations between the two countries, highlighting JSW’s operations in Texas and Ohio as key investments in the U.S. Simon reiterated the importance of steel tariffs in leveling the playing field for American workers and manufacturers, ensuring fair competition in the global market.
