Trudeau, who spoke hours after Trump launched the trade war with Mexico and Canada, said Canada is immediately imposing 25% tariffs on US imports worth $30 billion, targeting an additional $125 billion worth of dollars in 21 days if necessary.
“There is absolutely no justification or need for these tariffs today,” Trudeau told reporters, adding that Canada will challenge US measures at the World Trade Organization.
Trump has declared Canada has failed to do enough to stop the flow of deadly fentanyl opioids and their precursor chemicals to the United States.
Trudeau, who will step down as prime minister after the ruling Liberal Party chose a new leader on Sunday, warned Canadians that there are tough times. Economists say Canada, which sends 75% of all exports to the US, will be in a recession unless tariffs are lifted quickly.
But they also say Americans are likely to suffer, given how tightly the two economies are connected. In late January, the Wall Street Journal said if Trump moves ahead, he would launch “the stupidest trade war in history.” “It’s not my habit to agree to the Wall Street Journal, but Donald, they point out that this is a very stupid thing, even if you’re a very clever guy,” Trudeau said. Trump’s actions are unprecedented, threatening to have the relationships of the three trading partners erode severely.
Quebec and Ontario, two of Canada’s most populous provinces, have removed alcohol from the shelves of the provincial liquor store, and Canadian sports fans have begun booing their US teams.
“We’re going to buy Canadian products, throw away bourbon and other classic American products, and we’re probably going to keep booing the American national anthem,” Trudeau said.
“But let’s talk to the Americans. We’re not booing you. We’re not booing your team. We’re not booing your players. We’re booing policies designed to hurt us.
