Canada Vows to ‘Fight Back’ Amid Trade Tariffs

Trudeau Vows Counter Tariffs on US in Response to 25% Tariffs

In response to sweeping new U.S. tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the nation of Canada today alongside key cabinet ministers, vowing to fight back against what he described as an unjustified “trade war” launched by Canada’s closest ally. The tariffs—a 25% tax on all Canadian exports to the United States except energy (taxed at 10%), alongside similar measures against Mexico and a doubled 20% tariff on Chinese imports—prompted immediate action from Canada.

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Trudeau announced that Canada has implemented $30 billion in counter-tariffs on American consumer goods effective immediately, with an additional $125 billion in tariffs to follow in 21 days. These measures target a total of $155 billion worth of U.S. products, signaling a tit-for-tat escalation aimed at pressuring the U.S. to reconsider its stance. “Canadians are reasonable and polite, but we will not back down from a fight—not when our country and the well-being of everyone in it is at stake,” Trudeau stated.

Border Security Plan

The U.S. tariffs, which the Trump administration started as a response to alleged Canadian inaction on illegal fentanyl trafficking, were dismissed by Trudeau as “totally false.” He pointed to a $1.3 billion border security plan, a 97% drop in fentanyl seizures at the Canadian border since January, and a new $200 million joint operation with U.S. agencies as evidence of Canada’s commitment. “There is absolutely no justification or need whatsoever for these tariffs,” he said, accusing the U.S. of using fentanyl as a “legal pretext” for broader economic aggression.

The Prime Minister also appealed directly to Americans, warning of mutual harm. “Your government has chosen to put American jobs at risk, raise costs for everyday essentials, and impede access to critical minerals and energy that the United States needs,” he said, noting that markets are already down and inflation is poised to rise across the U.S. He urged President Donald Trump, with whom he expects to speak in the coming days, to reconsider, citing their history of collaboration on trade deals that created “record jobs and growth” for both nations.

Businesses Impacted 

Canadian businesses are already taking action. One entrepreneur, who imports $2 million in U.S. agricultural materials annually, canceled his contracts after years of ignored warnings to U.S. counterparts. “I told them, send a letter to your president,” he said, urging leaders at all levels to join the response. Trudeau echoed this call, predicting a “broadly held determination” from Canadians in the weeks ahead.

Beyond tariffs, Canada is exploring non-tariff measures in coordination with provinces and territories, such as restricting government contracts with American firms. Trudeau emphasized unity as the cornerstone of Canada’s strategy, insisting that no region or industry will bear a disproportionate burden. “The most important thing is that Canadians remain united,” he said, contrasting this solidarity with the “difficult conversations” he expects Americans to have with their own government.

Globally, Canada is finding support. Trudeau revealed recent talks with European and international allies, who see the U.S. actions as a threat to all trading partners. Mexico, also hit with 25% tariffs, plans retaliation by Sunday, though details remain unclear. China has already imposed a 15% counter-tariff on U.S. goods.

For Canadians, Trudeau promised support if the trade war persists, including expanded employment insurance and aid for businesses. “This is going to be tough,” he admitted, “but we will defend Canadian jobs and stand up for Canadians every single second of every single day.” He rallied citizens to “choose Canada,” expressing pride in their resilience and optimism about overcoming the crisis together.

As the Liberal Party prepares to select a new leader this weekend, Trudeau’s final days as Prime Minister remain uncertain, with a transition plan to be determined. Yet his message was resolute: “Canada is the best country in the world… and when it comes to defending our great nation, there is no price we aren’t willing to pay.”