Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has pledged a firm response if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through with a proposed 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Trudeau emphasized that “everything is on the table” to protect Canada’s economic interests.
“If there are unfair tariffs, we will respond robustly and be there to support Canadians,” Trudeau stated, addressing the potential economic fallout of Trump’s proposed trade measures.
The tariffs, announced by Trump during an Oval Office signing ceremony, could take effect as early as February 1. They are part of a broader U.S. initiative to review the impact of the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA) and strengthen American manufacturing, border security, and efforts to combat the flow of fentanyl and undocumented migrants.
Trudeau highlighted that Canada has already invested over $1 billion in comprehensive border security measures, asserting that less than 1% of fentanyl and illegal immigration into the U.S. originates from Canada. He reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and prosperity of both nations.
Canada’s leader also underscored the critical economic ties between the two countries. “Canadian energy powers American manufacturing, businesses, and homes,” Trudeau said. “Canada is the only one of America’s top trading partners with whom it runs a trade surplus in manufacturing. We buy more U.S. goods than China, Japan, and Germany combined.”
Trudeau warned that the proposed tariffs could backfire, raising costs for American consumers while jeopardizing the mutually beneficial trade relationship. He highlighted Canada’s abundant supply of resources—steel, aluminum, minerals, and energy—that could support Trump’s vision of a “golden age” for the U.S. economy.
“The alternative for the U.S. would be relying on resources from less secure partners like Russia, China, or Venezuela,” Trudeau added. “Canada remains a safe, reliable, and essential ally in an uncertain world.”
The proposed tariffs could strain the wallets of U.S. consumers, as Canada and Mexico together account for 30% of the value of all goods imported into the United States. Economists warn that while the tariffs aim to protect domestic industries, the added costs could ultimately fall on American buyers as businesses pass on the financial burden.
Trudeau’s remarks set the stage for intensified negotiations as both countries navigate one of the most significant trade challenges in recent years.
