OTTAWA, July 11: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly responded to US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a sweeping 35 per cent tariff on all Canadian imports, vowing to defend Canadian workers and businesses against the proposed trade measure set to take effect on August 1.
In a public statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Carney reaffirmed Canada’s resolve to protect its national economic interests amid intensifying trade tensions. “Throughout the current trade negotiations with the United States, the Canadian government has steadfastly defended our workers and businesses. We will continue to do so as we work towards the revised deadline of August 1,” Carney declared.
President Trump had earlier claimed that the tariffs were a response to Canada’s alleged failure to sufficiently curb the flow of fentanyl into the United States, although data suggests the majority of fentanyl entering the US comes through its southern border with Mexico. Trump’s warning also came with the threat of increasing tariffs if Canada retaliates, while still leaving room for negotiation.
Carney dismissed the rationale behind the tariffs, emphasizing Canada’s ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking in North America. “We are committed to continuing to work with the United States to save lives and protect communities in both our countries,” he said.
In addition to defending Canada’s economic resilience, Carney underlined the country’s broader strategy. “We are building Canada strong. The federal government, provinces and territories are making significant progress in building one Canadian economy. We are poised to build a series of major new projects in the national interest. We are strengthening our trading partnerships throughout the world,” he added.
The escalating trade row between the two North American neighbors follows a wave of new tariffs under Trump’s renewed protectionist agenda. Besides Canada, tariffs have recently been imposed on imports from Japan and South Korea, and a 50 per cent tariff on imported copper was announced earlier this week. Trump also hinted that more countries may face blanket tariffs ranging from 15 to 20 per cent based on trade practices and national security cooperation.
With the fate of previous tariff exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) unclear, economists warn that the impending duties could disrupt cross-border trade and affect industries ranging from automotive to agriculture. As both countries brace for further developments, diplomatic channels remain open but strained, with only weeks left before the tariff deadline.
