The U.S. Department of Commerce's decision to impose additional tariffs on steel household appliances, including dishwashers and refrigerators starting June 23, has drawn sharp criticism from Canadian officials. Dominic LeBlanc, Canada's Minister of Canada-U.S. Trade Affairs, warned in a televised interview that the doubling of steel and aluminum tariffs would harm industries on both sides of the border, calling the measures economically self-destructive.
LeBlanc emphasized that Canadian businesses and workers now face 'tremendous uncertainty,' with the tariffs threatening to disrupt supply chains and inflate costs. He argued that the U.S. policy undermines its own economy while destabilizing Canada's steel and aluminum sectors—a critical pillar of bilateral trade worth billions annually.
While Canada has implemented countermeasures, including targeted tariffs on U.S. goods, LeBlanc acknowledged these steps create domestic economic pressure. However, he expressed confidence that U.S. policymakers would reconsider their stance due to mounting backlash from American industries and consumers. 'Our trust in the U.S. as a reliable partner has been shaken,' he stated, urging Washington to reverse course.
If negotiations fail, Canada may escalate retaliatory actions against the doubled tariffs, particularly targeting the automobile industry. The minister reiterated Ottawa's willingness to collaborate but stressed cooperation depends on the U.S. halting what he called 'unjustified economic sanctions.' Analysts warn the dispute could ripple through global steel markets, affecting prices and trade flows across Asia and Europe.
