In response to US trade restrictions, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared Canada’s commitment to defending its national interests.
Following President Trump’s imposition of extensive trade restrictions on Canadian imports, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced retaliatory 25% tariffs on American goods.
“This evening, I’m announcing that Canada will implement 25% tariffs on $155 billion in American goods in response to US trade actions,” Trudeau stated at a Saturday press conference.
Initial tariffs, impacting $30 billion worth of US goods, will take effect Tuesday, with broader measures to follow in 21 days, allowing Canadian businesses time to adapt.
“These tariffs will be wide-ranging and affect everyday items,” the Prime Minister noted, citing alcohol, produce, apparel, and footwear as examples. Alongside direct tariffs, Ottawa is exploring “various non-tariff measures,” potentially including restrictions on crucial minerals, energy procurement, and other trade collaborations.
“We will stand firm for Canada,” Trudeau emphasized. “We will stand strong to ensure our countries remain the best neighbors in the world,” he added, urging Canadians to support domestic businesses.
Trump’s 25% tariffs on nearly all Canadian goods were announced earlier Saturday, with the White House citing concerns about illegal drug trafficking and immigration.
“The serious threat posed by illegal immigration and drugs, including deadly fentanyl, constitutes a national emergency,” a White House fact sheet stated. “President Trump is taking decisive action to hold Mexico, Canada, and China accountable for their pledges to halt illegal immigration and stop the flow of dangerous fentanyl and other drugs into our country.”
The US president asserted that Canada has played “a key role” in America’s fentanyl crisis and failed to “allocate sufficient attention and resources” to combat drug trafficking.
To prevent the tariffs, Ottawa proposed a $1.3 billion plan focused on strengthening border security and combating drug trafficking. However, Trump declared on Friday that there is “nothing Canada can do at this time” to avoid the new tariffs.
Economists caution that this escalating trade dispute could lead to higher consumer prices and economic disruption in both nations.