Canadian officials have condemned the latest U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum as unjustified and damaging, hinting at potential retaliatory measures. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday morning, Mark Carney, reiterated the impact of these tariffs, citing them as illegal and harmful not only to American workers and industries but also to Canadian ones.

Carney pointed out that Canada currently has counter-tariffs on over $90 billion worth of U.S. imports, stressing that these remain in place. With the new tariffs expected to heavily impact Canadian industries, talks of a strong retaliation are taking place.

“We are engaged in intensive discussions with the U.S. regarding our trading relationship, and those talks show progress,” Carney stated. He added, “While the American action is global and not solely targeting Canada, our response will be calculated and timely.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed confidence in a looming resolution to the trade dispute but voiced support for retaliatory measures should a deal not be reached swiftly.

In a recent executive order, President Trump increased tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports from 25 percent to 50 percent as of Wednesday midnight. This action significantly affects a key Canadian export, with industry groups reporting a marked decline in U.S. imports.

Canadian steel and aluminum exports rely heavily on the U.S. market, with over 90 percent directed there, as per 2024 federal statistics.

Liberal MP Terry Sheehan criticized the tariffs, noting their detrimental impact on the Canada-U.S. relationship, particularly concerning Algoma Steel in his riding of Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma. He called for a strong governmental response similar to measures taken in 2018 to mitigate U.S. tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum.

“We must retaliate robustly to support our workforce and industries,” Sheehan asserted.

Peter Fragiskatos, Liberal MP for London Centre, mentioned the growing anxiety among industries in southwestern Ontario, reinforcing the urgency for action and reassurance.

Canadian Officials Signal Response to New U.S. Tariffs on Steel, Aluminum

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