Justin Trudeau imposes 25 pct tariff on US products, calls Donald Trump's 'trade war' a 'dumb thing'
Ottawa/IBNS: Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has slapped a 25 percent tariff on US products vowing to fight back Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports, calling it a "trade war" that will "first and foremost harm American families".
Trudeau said Canadians are "reasonable" and "polite," but will not back down from a fight, especially when the country's well-being is at stake.
On Tuesday, speaking from Parliament Hill, Trudeau slammed Trump's decision, saying that tariffs are a "very dumb thing to do."
He also raised questions on the logic behind working with Vladimir Putin, whom Trudeau called a "murderer and a dictator," while imposing tariffs on Canada, a close ally and partner.
"Today the United States has launched a trade war against Canada. Its closest partner and ally, its closest friend," Trudeau said.
In response to the US tariffs, Canada imposed 25 percent tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods, starting with $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and the remaining $125 billion worth of goods in 21 days.
Trudeau also announced plans to challenge the US's "illegal actions" or tariffs at the World Trade Organisation, which according to him violated the free trade agreement between the two countries.
The moment U.S. tariffs came into effect this morning, so did the Canadian response.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 4, 2025
Canada will be implementing 25% tariffs against $155 billion of American products.
Starting with $30 billion worth of goods immediately, and the remaining $125 billion in 21 days’ time.
Trudeau addressed the American public, warning that the tariffs would lead to inflation and harm US jobs, particularly in workplaces that rely on materials or consumers from Canada.
He urged Trump to reconsider, saying that the two countries should work together to ensure "prosperity for North Americans".
"They have chosen to sabotage their agenda," Trudeau adds. "There is absolutely no justification or need for these tariffs today."
The Canadian government has also announced measures to support Canadians affected by the trade war, including expanding support for those who lose their jobs and helping businesses stay afloat.
Trudeau assured Canadians that the government will "relentlessly fight" to protect the economy.
