Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has warned that his country will respond “forcefully” if US President Donald Trump proceeds with imposing tariffs on Canadian goods.
As per the American broadcast channel CNN, Trudeau emphasized that Canada would protect its interests and support its citizens if faced with unfair trade measures from the United States.
This statement follows President Trump’s announcement that his administration plans to impose a 25 percent tax on imports from Canada and Mexico, potentially taking effect as early as February 1.
The tariffs are part of Trump’s broader efforts to evaluate the impact of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on American workers and businesses.
Trudeau also addressed concerns over border security, referencing Trump’s executive action instructing officials to assess whether stricter US trade policies can curb the flow of illegal drugs and immigrants into the United States.
While acknowledging the President’s concerns, Trudeau noted that less than 1 percent of illegal immigrants entering the US come from Canada, and his government is already implementing a $1 billion comprehensive border security plan.
The Canadian Prime Minister stressed the vital role Canadian energy plays in powering US manufacturing, businesses, and homes, and pointed out that Canada is the only country among the top five US trading partners with a trade surplus in manufacturing.
He also pointed out that Canada purchases more American-made goods than China, Japan, and Germany combined.
Trudeau further emphasized that Canada’s resources – such as steel, aluminum, minerals, and affordable energy – are essential for the continued growth of the US economy, particularly as Trump’s vision for a “golden age” of American manufacturing relies on these materials.
He underscored Canada’s reliability as a partner, contrasting it with other nations like Russia, China, and Venezuela.
In response to the potential tariffs, Trudeau warned that such measures could negatively impact US finances, as Canada and Mexico are two of the US’s largest trading partners.
According to federal trade data, 30 percent of all goods imported by the US come from Canada, and while Trump claims that foreign exporters bear the burden of tariffs, Trudeau pointed out that American consumers would ultimately shoulder much of the cost, as retailers are unable to fully absorb the additional expenses.
Source: CNN
