Toronto – In response to heavy tariffs imposed by the United States under President Donald Trump, Canada and Mexico have announced retaliatory tariffs on American goods, raising concerns among businesses and consumers about the potential effects of this escalating trade conflict.
Canada has initiated a 25% tariff on American imports beginning February 4, which includes beverages, cosmetics, paper products, and other items, amounting to 30 billion Canadian dollars (approximately $20 billion). A subsequent list of additional goods, encompassing passenger vehicles, trucks, aluminum and steel products, fruits, vegetables, and various meat products, is expected soon, with an estimated worth of 125 billion Canadian dollars (around $85 billion).
Despite Mexico announcing retaliatory tariffs, specifics regarding rates or products have not yet been disclosed. Following the imposition of the U.S. tariffs—25% on goods from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% rate on Canadian oil—Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum held a phone discussion to strategize following America’s trade moves. Trudeau’s office reported that both leaders agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations, although the coordination of their tariff responses was not confirmed by Canadian officials.
Trudeau emphasized the importance of choosing locally sourced products on social media, reiterating the message that Canadians should support domestic products. Canada is a crucial export destination for 36 U.S. states, while Mexico ranks as the biggest trade partner for the United States.
Even amidst threats from Trump to escalate tariffs, Canada and Mexico remain firm in implementing their measures. Trudeau stated, “We’re certainly not looking to escalate, but we will stand up for Canada.” Some provincial authorities in places like Ontario and British Columbia have indicated plans to remove American liquor brands from their government-operated stores, with Ontario’s Liquor Control Board noting significant sales of American beverages worth nearly $1 billion annually. Premier Doug Ford announced that American products would be pulled from shelves starting Tuesday, effectively barring Ontario business owners from restocking these imports.
As citizens began considering alternatives to American goods on social media, Trudeau reached out directly to Americans, warning of the real consequences the tariffs would have for them. Trump, in turn, expressed discontent with Canada’s trade surplus and provocatively suggested that Canada should become the “Cherished 51st State” to avoid tariffs and benefit from lower taxes and enhanced military security.
Canadian sentiment reflects feelings of betrayal from what is perceived as an ally, further complicated by Trudeau’s reminder of Canada’s support for the U.S. in military conflicts and disaster relief efforts. In a public demonstration of discontent, Canadian hockey fans booed the American national anthem at recent NHL games, and similar sentiments were echoed at an NBA game involving the Toronto Raptors.
On the other hand, Mexico’s reaction has been more measured, with limited public commentary from officials, focusing on respect and preparedness. Past experiences helped Mexico avoid Trump’s tariffs in 2019. However, increased scrutiny of President Sheinbaum’s administration regarding alleged ties to criminal organizations has led to calls for accountability from the U.S., with demands for fixes to drug trafficking and gun control issues within the borders.
Reactions on the ground in Mexico varied, as many people were still grasping the implications of the recent tariff announcements. While some locals, like Carlos Barona, expressed confidence in the government’s leadership during these challenging times, Miriam Tenorio, who runs a vegetable and fruit stall, openly supported boycotting American products. Local traders in border towns like Mexicali expressed concern over potential economic fallout and job losses stemming from increased tariffs, with fears that American businesses might relocate to the U.S.
The ongoing trade conflict arrives as Canada anticipates an election cycle, with Trudeau’s Liberal Party set to announce a new leader soon, amid increasing tensions. Key political figures, such as Mark Carney—seen as a front-runner for leadership—proclaimed, “Canada will not bow down to a bully,” reinforcing the nation’s stance against U.S. trade pressures.
