Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada is set to introduce retaliatory tariffs of 25 per cent on a selection of American goods in response to US trade measures.
Speaking in a firm tone, he revealed that the countermeasures would target Canadian $155 billion (£84 billion) worth of US exports, warning that the move could deepen tensions between the long-standing allies.
The initial phase of these tariffs, covering Canadian $30 billion worth of US goods, will take effect on Tuesday, with an additional wave impacting Canadian $125 billion worth of imports in the coming weeks.
Trudeau emphasised that Canada was not seeking to escalate the situation but stressed that his government would defend national interests, jobs, and industries.
Among the American goods affected by these tariffs are everyday essentials such as beer, wine, whiskey, fruits, vegetables, household appliances, lumber, and plastic products. “And that’s just the beginning,” he warned.
The decision follows US President Donald Trump’s imposition of sweeping tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing national security concerns and the need to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Canadian exports to the United States will now face a 25 per cent tariff, although energy exports will be subject to a reduced 10 per cent duty.

Trudeau acknowledged that the economic clash would have tangible effects, not only for Canadians but also for Americans.
He highlighted the potential for job losses, increased costs for food and fuel, factory closures in the automotive sector, and restricted US access to key Canadian resources, including nickel, potash, uranium, steel, and aluminium.
Trudeau also reminded the US of Canada’s unwavering support during times of crisis, referencing key moments such as the Iran hostage crisis, the war in Afghanistan, and disasters like Hurricane Katrina and the recent California wildfires.
“We’ve always stood by your side,” he said. “If President Trump is truly looking to usher in a new era of prosperity, working with Canada—not against us—would be the smarter approach.”
Expressing disappointment in Washington’s actions, Trudeau lamented that instead of fostering unity, the White House had driven a wedge between the two nations.
His remarks were echoed by provincial leaders, who vowed to take further action. Some premiers indicated they would remove American alcoholic beverages from local shops while seeking alternative trade partnerships to reduce reliance on US markets.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith condemned the US tariffs as a “destructive policy” that would only weaken the longstanding economic and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Meanwhile, British Columbia Premier David Eby was even more direct, labelling the tariffs a complete betrayal and describing them as an economic act of war against a trusted ally.
He warned that the fallout from this decision would be lasting.
Public frustration was also evident at a National Hockey League (NHL) game in Ottawa, where spectators at a sold-out arena booed during the US national anthem before a match between the Ottawa Senators and the Minnesota Wild.