In a bid to ease tensions in the escalating trade war, a Canadian delegation is set to meet with U.S. officials in Washington today. The discussions come after U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports took effect on Tuesday. In response, Canada imposed nearly $30 billion in counter-tariffs on American goods, which came into force just after midnight on Thursday.
Canada Holds Firm on Chinese Tariffs
Despite the ongoing dispute with the U.S., Canada’s Innovation Minister, François-Philippe Champagne, confirmed that Ottawa will not back down on the tariffs imposed on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum last year. The Canadian government introduced a 100% tax on Chinese EVs and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, accusing Beijing of unfair trade practices. In retaliation, China imposed nearly $4 billion in tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, including canola oil and pork.
“We’re standing strong to protect our industry, our workers, and our communities,” Champagne stated during an interview.
G7 Summit: Canada and U.S. Present United Front
While Canadian officials prepare for critical talks in Washington, G7 foreign ministers are gathering in Charlevoix, Quebec. Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized that the two nations are aligned on several global priorities, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed rumors of a U.S. “takeover” of Canada.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Criticizes Canada’s Retaliation
Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Commerce Secretary, praised the U.K. and Mexico for not engaging in retaliatory tariffs. However, he warned that countries like Canada, which respond with counter-measures, risk facing a harsher response from President Trump.
“If you make him unhappy, he responds unhappy,” Lutnick commented, referencing Trump’s latest move to impose a 200% tariff on European alcohol in response to EU tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum.
Freeland Backs Carney as Future PM
Former Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland expressed confidence in Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney’s ability to handle negotiations with Trump. Speaking to CNN, Freeland insisted that Carney will be firm in protecting Canada’s sovereignty.
“He’s made it clear that respect for Canada’s sovereignty is non-negotiable,” Freeland said. “The U.S. doesn’t buy our products out of kindness – they buy them because they need them.”
Trump Threatens Massive Tariffs on EU Alcohol
Amidst the growing global trade war, Trump has vowed to impose a 200% tariff on all wines, champagnes, and alcoholic products from the European Union in response to the EU’s recent 50% tax on American whiskey.
“This will be great for the U.S. wine and champagne industry,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
As tensions escalate on multiple fronts, the upcoming Canada-U.S. talks will be crucial in determining the future of North American trade relations.
