In response to US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced retaliatory tariffs on American goods worth USD 155 billion. Trudeau emphasized that this move was necessary to protect Canada’s interests while urging Canadians to support local products and businesses.
Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Trudeau outlined the specifics of the retaliatory tariffs, which will affect various American goods, including beer, wine, bourbon, fruit juices, household appliances, and clothing. The initial round of tariffs, valued at USD 30 billion, will be implemented starting Tuesday, with a further USD 125 billion worth of products subject to tariffs in 21 days. The prime minister stressed that this phased approach would give Canadian companies and supply chains time to find alternative sources.
“Our response will be far-reaching and include everyday items such as American beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, and juices, including orange juice, vegetables, perfume, clothing, shoes, household appliances, furniture, sports equipment, lumber, plastics, and much more,” Trudeau explained. “We are also working with provinces and territories to consider non-tariff measures, such as critical minerals, energy procurement, and other partnerships.”
Trudeau assured Canadians that the country would stand united in the face of this trade dispute, calling it “Team Canada at its best.” He further encouraged citizens to support Canadian-made products, check labels in supermarkets, and explore local destinations for vacations. “Now is the time to choose Canada,” he said. “You can help by buying Canadian-made goods, opting for Canadian rye over Kentucky bourbon, or even changing your summer vacation plans to visit national and provincial parks.”
He also emphasized that Canada possesses critical minerals, reliable energy, stable democratic institutions, and valuable natural resources, which make it a prime partner for the US. “If President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us,” Trudeau stated. “We have everything needed to build a booming and secure partnership for the North American economy.”
On the issue of drug trafficking, Trudeau addressed concerns about fentanyl and illegal crossings at the US-Canada border. While noting that less than 1% of fentanyl and illegal crossings originate from Canada, he reiterated Canada’s commitment to addressing the problem collaboratively. “We too are devastated by the scourge of fentanyl, and we want to see it wiped off the face of the Earth,” he said. He also highlighted a USD 1.3 billion border plan already in motion to improve security.
Trudeau’s decision to impose tariffs follows US President Trump’s announcement on Truth Social, in which he stated that the tariffs were implemented to protect Americans from illegal immigration and drug smuggling, including fentanyl. Trump emphasized that the move was a fulfillment of his campaign promise to safeguard US citizens.
“We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as President to ensure the safety of all,” Trump wrote, referring to the implementation of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Despite the tension between the two nations, Trudeau expressed his willingness to continue dialogue and cooperation with the US, stating that Canada and the US have successfully tackled challenges together in the past and would continue to do so in the future.
