Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Saturday that Canada will impose 25 percent tariffs on C$155 billion ($106.5 billion) worth of U.S. goods in retaliation to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
\"We didn't ask for this but we will not back down,\" Trudeau declared during a news conference. The new Canadian tariffs will be implemented in two stages: C$30 billion will take effect from Tuesday, with the remaining C$125 billion following in 21 days.
Earlier, President Trump signed an executive order imposing 25 percent tariffs 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 cautioned that Trump's tariffs would also negatively impact American consumers.
\"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,\" he said, addressing Americans directly.
The Canadian tariffs will target a range of American products, including beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, and fruit juices—specifically orange juice from Florida, Trump's home state. Other goods such as clothing, sports equipment, and household appliances are also on the list.
Additionally, Canada is considering non-tariff measures related to critical minerals, energy procurement, and other partnerships, according to Trudeau.
The Prime Minister encouraged Canadians to support their domestic economy by purchasing Canadian products and vacationing within Canada rather than the United States.
\"We didn't ask for this but we will not back down,\" Trudeau reiterated, emphasizing Canada's resolve in the face of escalating trade tensions.
Reference(s):
Trudeau announces 25 percent tariffs in response to Trump order
cgtn.com
