EcoPro BM, a South Korea–based battery materials manufacturer, announced that it will pause construction on its $1.2 billion plant in Bécancour, Quebec, starting in early June. This interruption stems from pressure from U.S. tariffs and slower-than-expected EV demand, which have introduced significant uncertainty into the North American market. Although the company didn’t specify a date, its statement noted that the decision followed “several weeks” of internal discussions as it navigates a shifting policy landscape .
Temporary Standstill Amid Global Trade Tensions
EcoPro clarified that the suspension is temporary, but conceded that it’s too soon to say how long the pause might last given current market conditions . This isn’t the first delay at the Bécancour site, work was previously halted twice last year. Despite these interruptions, the facility, which began construction in fall 2023, remains targeted for production in early 2026 under the original schedule.
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Ford Departure Highlights Industry Realignments
Originally, Ford was a partner in this venture, but the automaker pulled out last year, citing evolving EV technologies and cost considerations . Even after Ford’s exit, EcoPro expressed confidence in the project’s long-term viability and reaffirmed its intent to continue construction. Nonetheless, the current tariff environment and weak EV growth have forced the company to pause and reevaluate its next steps.
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Navigating Uncertain Waters Toward Resilience
This construction pause reflects broader challenges facing Canada’s battery supply chain, as cross-border dependencies, trade friction, and uneven EV adoption continue to create instability. Still, EcoPro remains actively engaged with automakers and battery producers in an effort to readjust and proceed when conditions improve. While the company labels the suspension temporary, it acknowledges that timing for resumption will depend on broader market clarity and policy stability.
EcoPro Quebec Battery Plant Overview
Project Name: EcoPro BM Battery Materials Plant
Total Investment: CAD 1.2 billion (~USD 900 million)
Location: Bécancour, Quebec (midway between Montreal and Quebec City)
Developer: EcoPro BM (South Korea-based)
Original Timeline:
Construction began: Fall 2023
Production targeted: Early 2026
Latest Update:
Construction paused: Early June 2025
Reason: Temporary halt due to U.S. tariffs and softening EV demand
Previous pauses: Occurred twice in 2024 due to market and design challenges
Former Partner: Ford Motor Company (left in 2024, citing shifting EV tech and costs)
