Canada to Impose Retaliatory Tariffs on US Goods Starting September 8
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that retaliatory tariffs against the United States will be implemented starting September 8. He indicated that these measures will target sectors such as steel and dairy products.
Carney’s announcement follows renewed tensions initiated by the Trump administration against Canada. The Prime Minister commented, “We cannot control the storm blowing from Washington. However, we can chart a new course by strengthening Canada internally and diversifying our trade relationships externally.”
He elaborated on Canada’s stance, stating, “We were never under any illusion and realized from the beginning that America had changed. We have always sought long-term partnerships, while America has often pursued short-term deals. Unfortunately, in recent days, the gap between ‘partner’ and ‘competitor’ has remained very deep. Last night, I instructed our negotiators to return to Ottawa.”
Carney emphasized that Canada cannot accept the proposals put forth by the U.S. side and will not concede to their demands. He pointed out that the limited U.S. trade deficit in goods exists largely because the country purchases a significant portion of its energy needs from Canada. He highlighted Canada’s role in fueling U.S. economic growth, supplying 99% of natural gas imports, 85% of electricity imports, and 60% of crude oil imports to the United States.
“I don’t think they would want us to stop supplying any of these energy resources,” Carney noted. He added that Canadian exports to the United States reduce costs for American families, and conversely, tariffs are a form of tax ultimately paid by American consumers. “In short, the Americans had excessive demands and their offers were too meager,” he concluded.
This development comes after the Canadian Prime Minister had previously announced the suspension of trade talks with Washington. Carney had stated that if the U.S. were to impose 50% tariffs, Canada would reciprocate. He deemed the progress in negotiations with the U.S. insufficient to achieve Canada’s objectives for its people.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump had announced a three-day pause on his decision to impose substantial 50% tariffs on goods imported from Canada. Trump claimed this temporary retreat was due to Washington and Ottawa reaching a framework for a bilateral agreement, although these tariffs were slated to be implemented.
