Canada’s premiers are meeting with Trudeau as Trump’s tariffs could be days away
The meeting of the premiers in Ottawa with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday is crucial as they discuss the looming threat of president-elect Donald Trump’s promised tariffs on all Canadian goods. Trump’s plan to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from countries like Canada is expected to have a devastating impact on the Canadian economy, potentially costing billions of dollars in GDP and putting key industries at risk.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed concerns about the potential job losses in Ontario if the tariffs are implemented, estimating that as many as 500,000 people could be out of work. He emphasized the need for significant government stimulus to support the economy in such a scenario.
To address Trump’s demands, Ottawa has developed a border security plan that includes deploying more personnel along the 49th parallel, increasing aerial surveillance over the border, and funding the creation of new K9 units to detect drugs like fentanyl at land crossings. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc has indicated that all measures are on the table to protect Canada’s economy.
In response to possible tariffs, Canada is also prepared to retaliate with tariffs on products like Florida orange juice and Kentucky bourbon. LeBlanc has not ruled out the possibility of halting Canadian oil exports to the U.S. if necessary.
The premiers have been actively engaging with American counterparts to highlight the importance of the Canada-U.S. relationship and dispel misconceptions about trade deficits and immigration issues. They have also had to address Trump’s rhetoric about annexing Canada as the 51st state.
Trudeau, who recently announced his intention to resign as prime minister, remains focused on protecting Canadian interests amidst the threat of tariffs. He will lead Canada through this challenging time until a new Liberal Party leader is chosen in March. Canadian business and labor groups are also mobilizing to strategize and navigate the potential trade war and NAFTA renegotiation.
As the premiers gather in Ottawa and Trudeau prepares for a cabinet retreat in Quebec, Team Canada is committed to defending Canadian investment and jobs and reinforcing the mutually beneficial relationship with the U.S. The newly formed Canada-U.S. Trade Council will play a key role in coordinating efforts and providing expertise to navigate the uncertainties ahead.
