Canada vows strong retaliation to Trump's new tariffs

In a brief statement to the media, Carney declared that Canada will fight American tariffs through appropriate countermeasures. The Prime Minister emphasised that his country's actions will be full of "purpose" and "force", while indicating that the US decisions "will fundamentally change the international trading 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 in the decision, previously imposed tariffs on steel and aluminium 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, semiconductors.

Before the official announcement of the tariffs by the USA, Carney published a series of posts on platform X concerning the American decisions. He paid particular attention to Canadian agriculture, whose operational principles, such as supply management ensuring a steady income for local farmers, have long been criticised by the United States.

"From defending supply management to investing more and cutting red tape, my new government will ensure Canadian farmers, ranchers, and agrifood workers have what they need to be protected and ensure they can get food from Canadian farms to Canadian plates. By safeguarding our domestic food sector and investing in workers across the country, we will protect our economic sovereignty and build a stronger Canada," wrote the Prime Minister of Canada. He also noted that "Canada’s dairy sector is off the table in any negotiations with President Trump."

On Tuesday, Carney held a conversation with the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum. The Prime Minister emphasised that "in a shifting global economy, strong and reliable partners matter. Canada and Mexico are focused on deepening our trade relations and building stronger economies, 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.

The basic 10 per cent tariff rate for products imported by the USA from all countries will take effect on 5 April. Meanwhile, additional tariffs on countries with which the USA has the largest trade deficits will start on 9 April. This group includes China and the European Union, which will be subject to additional tariffs of 34 per cent and 20 per cent, 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 the Canadian government will have more to say about Canada's response to American actions.