Algoma Steel has applied for a $500-million loan from the federal government to help the Sault Ste. Marie mill as it faces 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian steel exports to the United States.

The company says in a press release it remains concerned with the "significant impact" that U.S. tariffs are having on its operations and outlook.

Algoma Steel is calling on the federal government to provide it with around half a billion dollars to help the company stay alive. The request comes in response to mounting pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who introduced a 25-per-cent tariff on steel and aluminum in March and then increased it to 50 per cent in June.