Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will impose significant and immediate retaliatory tariffs on United States goods, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s confirmation that he will proceed with heavy tariffs on Canada starting Tuesday.
On Saturday, Trump signed an executive order imposing 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, with a reduced 10 percent duty on energy products. This move set the stage for an unprecedented trade conflict with Canada, America’s closest neighbor.
Trudeau held a news conference on Saturday evening to reveal that Canada would launch an immediate $30 billion retaliation package.
This will be followed by $125 billion in tariffs on American goods within 21 days, allowing businesses and supply chains time to adjust.
The retaliatory measures will target a wide range of American products, including beer, wine, bourbon, fruits and fruit juices (like orange juice), vegetables, perfume, clothing, and shoes, Trudeau announced.
Trump signed the executive order on Saturday at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, after spending much of the day at a golf course.
The order includes a retaliation clause, stating that if Canada imposes duties on American products, the tariffs could be increased.
In a social media post, Trump explained that the tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China were implemented to combat what he described as the illegal flow of fentanyl and people across America’s borders.
“We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as president to ensure the safety of all,” he said.
In his news conference, Trudeau stated that he had not been able to personally reach President Trump regarding the tariffs.
However, addressing the American public, Trudeau warned that the tariffs on Canada could “put your jobs at risk,” potentially leading to the shutdown of the American auto and manufacturing sectors.
“They will raise costs for you, including at the grocery stores and at the gas pump,” Trudeau said.