Canada has announced a significant escalation in its trade dispute with the United States. On Saturday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared that Canada would impose 25 percent tariffs on C$155 billion ($106.5 billion) worth of U.S. goods. This decisive move comes in direct response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent executive order imposing tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports.
\"We didn't ask for this but we will not back down,\" Trudeau stated firmly during a news conference. The initial round of Canadian tariffs, amounting to C$30 billion, will take effect on Tuesday, with an additional C$125 billion scheduled in 21 days.
Earlier, President Trump signed an executive order that levied a 25 percent tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico starting Tuesday, with the exception of Canadian energy products, which will face a 10 percent duty.
Trudeau warned that the coming weeks would be challenging for Canadians and emphasized that the U.S. tariffs would also adversely affect Americans. Addressing citizens across the border, he said, \"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 tariffs would target a range of American goods, including beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, and fruit juices—specifically highlighting orange juice from President Trump's home state of Florida. Other items on the list include clothing, sports equipment, and household appliances.
In addition to tariffs, Canada is considering non-tariff measures that could involve critical minerals, energy procurement, and other partnerships, according to Trudeau.
He encouraged Canadians to support their national economy by purchasing Canadian products and vacationing within the country rather than traveling to the U.S.
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Trudeau announces 25 percent tariffs in response to Trump order
cgtn.com
