Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made it clear today that his country would respond “vigorously” if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through with imposing tariffs on Canada, telling reporters that “everything is on the table.”
“If there are unfair tariffs, we will respond strongly, and we will be there to support Canadians and protect our interests,” Trudeau stated during a press conference in response to a journalist’s question.
Trump announced on Monday, during a ceremony in the Oval Office, that his administration would impose a 25% tax on goods from Canada and Mexico, a measure that could come into effect as early as February 1st.
Trudeau also addressed Trump’s executive order signed on Monday, which directs officials to analyze how the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) impacts American workers and businesses — and whether the U.S. should remain in the free trade agreement. The order calls for agencies to assess whether stricter U.S. trade policies could effectively curb the flow of fentanyl and undocumented migrants into the United States.
“While less than 1% of fentanyl and undocumented migrants entering the United States come from Canada, our government has already taken action to address the concerns raised by the president about border security with a comprehensive border plan valued at over $1 billion,” Trudeau said. “We are already working to keep our citizens safe on both sides of the border.”
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