Canada is ready to respond swiftly if US President Donald Trump imposes a 25% tariff, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated, emphasizing that Ottawa will not remain passive.
“If the president decides to impose tariffs on Canada, we are prepared to respond—strategically, decisively, but also reasonably and immediately. This is not something we want, but if he moves forward, we will act,” Trudeau said.
His remarks come in response to Trump’s claims that Canada has failed to curb the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
“Our border is secure and well-managed. We are now showing the new US administration that Canada is a strong partner in maintaining border security. At the same time, we are making it clear that we will not back down—if tariffs are imposed on Canada, we will respond,” the prime minister added.
Trudeau confirmed that retaliatory measures against the US would remain in place until the 25% tariff is lifted.
He also warned that Canadians may face “challenging times” in the coming weeks if the tariffs take effect.
President Trump previously announced that starting February 1, a 25% tariff would be imposed on imports from Canada and Mexico. He justified the decision by citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the US through its northern and southern borders.
