Canadian PM Urges US to Take Trade War Seriously

Canadian Prime Minister Justin D. B. announced that Ottawa will impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to President Donald J. Trump’s sweeping trade measures, amid growing tensions between the two nations. The announcement comes as Canada prepares to levy duties on a range of American products, including automobiles, steel and agricultural imports, following a series of U.S. tariffs that have disrupted trade flows and raised concerns about a potential trade war.

In a separate statement, the prime minister criticized U.S. officials for what he described as insulting remarks toward Canada, calling such comments “beneath their office.” The remarks were made in the context of a broader dispute that has seen U.S. trade officials, including former Treasury Secretary Mark Carney, urge Washington to “start being serious” about the escalating trade frictions. Ottawa’s move to counter the U.S. tariffs is intended to protect Canadian industries and signal that Canada will defend its economic interests against unilateral trade actions.

The retaliatory tariffs are expected to take effect in the coming weeks, with Canada warning that it will adjust its duties to ensure a fair and reciprocal trade relationship. The development underscores the heightened diplomatic strain between the two countries and signals that Canada is prepared to take decisive measures to counter U.S. trade policies that it views as unfair.