Ottawa - Agencies

The Canadian government seeks to leverage its trade relationships within the United States to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider his plans to impose partial tariffs on Canadian exports.

Diplomatic and trade efforts to prevent escalation

Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng stated in an interview with Bloomberg during her visit to Brussels that Canada will continue to pressure the Trump administration by reaching out to U.S. states that have strong trade ties with Canada.

Ng added:

“These states have strong economic links with Canada, and we have worked to enhance dialogue with them because it is essential to keep both state-level and local trade partners informed about the impact of these decisions.”

She emphasized the importance of Americans understanding that “the tariffs will not only affect Canada but will also make life more expensive for American consumers.”

U.S. measures targeting Canada, Mexico, and China

The Trump administration announced the imposition of tariffs on major U.S. trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. According to a White House statement, a 25% tariff will be imposed on products imported from Canada and Mexico, in addition to a 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources.

The statement noted that these measures will remain in effect "until both countries cooperate with the United States in combating drug trafficking and illegal immigration."

Strong Canadian response with counter-tariffs

In response to this move, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the imposition of a 25% counter-tariff on a wide range of American goods, aiming to protect the Canadian economy and reciprocate against U.S. actions.

Rising trade tension between Ottawa and Washington

These developments indicate an escalation of trade tension between Canada and the United States, which could impact the Canadian economy and free trade relations between the two countries. As pressures continue, Canada hopes that shared economic interests will prompt Washington to reconsider these tariffs.