The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced that Canada will implement retaliatory measures against tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. As part of these measures, Canada will impose a 25% tax on approximately $155 billion (around 149,584 million euros) in trade with the US. Trudeau made this announcement after speaking with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, following Trump’s decision to sign decrees imposing a 25% tax on imports from Canada and Mexico, effective as of Tuesday.
Trudeau revealed that Canada will immediately tax $30 billion of American imports, starting on Tuesday, when the US tariffs take effect. An additional $121 billion of commerce will be taxed 21 days later, allowing Canadian companies and supply chains to explore alternative options. Some of the American products that will be subject to tariffs include beer, bourbon, juices, vegetables, clothing, footwear, appliances, wood, and plastic products.
Canada is also considering non-tariff retaliatory measures, such as impacting energy and mining projects related to critical minerals, which are crucial collaboration points between the two American neighbors. Trudeau announced these measures in Ottawa, surrounded by several ministers responsible for US relations, including Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly and Public Security Minister Dominic Leblanc. With a serious tone, Trudeau stated, “We are prepared to fight if necessary,” and concluded with a “Viva Canada” in French, emphasizing that he does not seek to escalate the trade war with the US but feels that action was necessary.
Before announcing the details of Canada’s retaliatory measures, Trudeau addressed the American public, recalling the strong friendship between Canada and the US that has been forged over decades. He quoted former President John F. Kennedy, saying, “Geography has made us neighbors, history has made us friends, the economy has made us partners, and necessity has made us allies.” Trudeau highlighted the moments when Canadians and Americans have fought together, such as after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when Canada welcomed thousands of Americans and later lost dozens of soldiers in Afghanistan while fighting the Taliban. He emphasized that Canada has always been a loyal partner to the US, saying, “We were always there, next to you, the American people, crying together. We have built the most successful economic, military, and security association that the world has seen.”