Trudeau Warns U.S. Vice-President About Impact of Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

· · · ·

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance about the economic fallout of new 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. The two leaders met during the AI Action Summit in Paris, where Trudeau highlighted the potential harm to both countries.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses reporters upon arriving at the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit at the Grand Palais in Paris, France, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick)

Tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would be entirely unjustified,” Trudeau told reporters. “We are the U.S.’s closest ally and our economies are deeply integrated.”

Economic Impact on Ohio and U.S.-Canada Trade

Trudeau specifically mentioned the impact on Ohio, Vance’s home state. Ohio is the top U.S. exporter to Canada, sending over $21 billion in goods north in 2023, according to the U.S. Trade Representative. If Canada retaliates, American steel, cars, plastics, iron, and aviation exports could face counter tariffs.

The Trump administration confirmed that the tariffs, set to take effect March 12, will apply without exemptions. The federal government will work with U.S. officials to stress the potential damage to both economies.

Canada’s Possible Response

Trudeau did not announce specific countermeasures but stated that Canada will stand up for its workers and industries.

“If it comes to that, our response will be firm and clear,” Trudeau said. His government has warned that a trade war could lead to higher consumer prices and economic disruptions in both countries.

International Coordination Against Tariffs

The Canadian government is working with international leaders on a coordinated response. Trudeau will travel to Brussels to meet with European Union leaders and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice-President Vance did not respond to questions from Canadian media about the tariffs upon arriving at the summit.

Next Steps

As the March 12 deadline approaches, Canadian officials continue diplomatic efforts to prevent economic strain on both nations. Businesses in Canada and the U.S. are already preparing for the possible effects of the new tariffs.

More…

Read More..

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *