Canada vows strong retaliation to US tariffs

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Tuesday, February 11th, 2025

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OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has vowed a “firm and clear” response to the latest tariffs proposed by US President Donald Trump, set to impose a 25% import tax on all steel and aluminum products entering the US from March 12. This new move is expected to affect Canada, the top exporter of these metals to the US.
Trudeau criticized the tariffs as “entirely unjustified,” asserting Canada’s position as the US’s closest ally. The tariffs, part of Trump’s broader economic strategy to protect US jobs and industries, have been met with widespread opposition, including from Canadian provincial leaders and economists who warn the measures could raise prices for American consumers.
Canada exports over six million tonnes of steel and more than three million tonnes of aluminum to the US annually. Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne highlighted that Canadian metal exports enhance North American competitiveness and security. Quebec Premier François Legault also opposed the tariffs, pointing out his province’s significant contribution to US aluminum imports.
The Canadian Steel Producers Association warned that these tariffs could negatively impact multiple sectors in both countries. Opposition leaders in Canada, including Pierre Poilievre, have also signaled that they would impose matching tariffs on US goods if elected.
Trump’s tariffs are a key component of his economic vision to reduce the US trade deficit and increase domestic production. However, concerns over the impact on US businesses and consumers, particularly in sectors reliant on imports, continue to grow.