Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on the U.S. starting Tuesday

Canada to Retaliate Against US Tariffs With 25% Levies on American Goods, Says Trudeau

Canada will respond to US trade actions by imposing 25% tariffs on C$155 billion (US$106 billion) worth of American goods, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Saturday, warning of a potential rift in Canada-US relations.

The first round of tariffs, targeting C$30 billion worth of US products, will take effect Tuesday, with additional levies on C$125 billion in goods set to follow in three weeks. Trudeau emphasized that Canada is not seeking to escalate tensions but will "stand up for Canadians and Canadian jobs."

The tariffs will impact everyday items, including American beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, vegetables, consumer appliances, lumber, and plastics, among other goods.

This move follows President Donald Trump's broad tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Canadian exports to the US will now face a 25% tariff, while energy resources will be subject to a lower 10% levy.

Trudeau warned that the trade dispute would have "real consequences" for both countries, potentially leading to job losses, higher food and fuel prices, auto plant shutdowns, and restricted access to Canadian resources such as nickel, potash, uranium, steel, and aluminum.

He reminded Americans of Canada’s longstanding support during critical moments, from the Iran hostage crisis and Afghanistan war to natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and California wildfires.

"If President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not punish us," Trudeau stated. "Unfortunately, today’s White House actions drive us apart instead of bringing us together."

Following Trudeau’s announcement, provincial leaders vowed additional countermeasures, such as removing US liquor from store shelves and seeking to diversify trade relationships. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith criticized the tariffs as a "mutually destructive policy," while British Columbia Premier David Eby called them a "complete betrayal" and an "economic war against a trusted ally."

Public frustration was evident as well—at an NHL game in Ottawa between the Senators and Minnesota Wild, a sold-out crowd booed the US national anthem before the match.