Ottawa, Canada—Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Saturday that Canada will impose 25 percent tariffs on 155 billion Canadian dollars ($106.5 billion USD) worth of U.S. goods in retaliation to U.S. tariffs.
According to Trudeau, tariffs on 30 billion Canadian dollars will take effect starting Tuesday, with the remaining 125 billion Canadian dollars to be implemented in 21 days. The announcement came during a press conference where Trudeau addressed the escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing 25 percent tariffs on all goods from Canada and Mexico beginning on Tuesday, except for Canadian energy products, which will face a 10 percent duty.
Trudeau warned that the coming weeks would be difficult for Canadians and stressed that the U.S. tariffs would also negatively impact American consumers. Addressing the American public directly, he stated, \"They will raise costs for you, including food at the grocery store, gas at the pump. They will impede your access to an affordable supply of vital goods.\"
The Canadian leader outlined that the retaliatory tariffs would target American products such as beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, and fruit juices, including orange juice from Florida, President Trump's home state. Other affected goods include clothing, sports equipment, and household appliances.
In addition to tariffs, Canada is considering non-tariff measures, potentially related to critical minerals, energy procurement, and other partnerships, Trudeau mentioned.
He encouraged Canadians to support domestic products and consider vacationing within Canada rather than traveling to the United States. \"We didn't ask for this but we will not back down,\" Trudeau affirmed.
Reference(s):
Trudeau announces 25 percent tariffs in response to Trump order
cgtn.com
