canada gears up for battle against new US tariffs
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Wednesday that his country will firmly counteract the American tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The head of the Canadian government promised to protect domestic workers and build the strongest economy among G7 countries.
In a brief statement to the media, Carney declared that Canada will combat the American tariffs with appropriate countermeasures. The Prime Minister emphasized that his country's actions "will be purposeful and strong," while indicating that the U.S. decisions "will fundamentally change the international trade system." According to him, the negative consequences for the American economy will accumulate over time, and millions of Canadians will feel the impact.
The Prime Minister pointed out that although "important elements of the trade relationship between Canada and the USA have been preserved," previously imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum remain in effect. Additionally, tariffs on cars are coming into effect, and the United States is announcing further charges "in so-called strategic sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, construction lumber, and semiconductors."
Protecting Canadian agriculture a government priority
Before the official announcement of the tariffs by the USA, Carney published a series of posts on platform X regarding the American decisions. He paid particular attention to Canadian agriculture, whose operational principles, like supply management ensuring steady income for local farmers, have long been criticized by the United States.
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"Farmers, ranchers, and agri-food sector workers provide food for Canadian family tables. Faced with President Trump's unjustified tariffs, we will defend their jobs and bolster their sectors by protecting supply management policy, increasing income protection, and developing processing capacities," wrote the Prime Minister of Canada. He also noted that "supply management is part of our economic sovereignty and is not on the table for negotiation with President Trump."
On Tuesday, Carney held a conversation with the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum. The Prime Minister emphasized that "in a changing global economy, strong and reliable partners matter. Canada and Mexico are focusing on strengthening trade relations and building a stronger economy, together." According to a statement from the government's press office, the conversation included discussions about Canada's response plan to the American tariffs and economic development through increased trade between the two countries.
Global consequences of American tariff decisions
The basic 10-percent tariff rate for products imported by the USA from all countries will take effect at midnight Eastern Time on April 4. Meanwhile, additional tariffs on countries with which the USA has the largest trade deficits will start on April 9. This group includes China and the European Union, which will be subject to additional tariffs of 34% and 20%, respectively.
The new tariffs will not directly affect Canada and Mexico, as these countries have already been subject to tariff charges earlier. Prime Minister Carney announced that after planned meetings, including with the premiers of provinces and territories, on Thursday "we will have more to say" about Canada's response to American actions.
