Canada will fight back against the United States’ tariffs.
That was the message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who held a news conference on Saturday after President Donald Trump went forward with his threat to impose 25 per cent tariffs on most Canadian goods. These tariffs will go into effect on Tuesday.
Also starting Tuesday, Canada will be imposing 25 per cent tariffs on American goods. An immediate $30 billion worth of goods will be impacted with an additional $125 million being affected in the future.
"If Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the path is to partner with Canada, not fight us," said Trudeau.
He took time in his speech to urge Canadians to avoid buying U.S. products and instead buy those made in the country.
"Now is the time to do your part. Pick Canadian made products, change your summer vacation plans to stay in Canada. We must pull together, because we love this country," he added.
Trudeau explained he hasn't spoken to Trump about these retaliatory tariffs, but added he hopes to talk soon.
Meanwhile, retaliatory tariffs are something the Conservative Party of Canada wanted to see.
In a statement, Party Leader Pierre Poilievre called for “dollar-for-dollar tariffs.”
"That means targeting U.S. products that we can make ourselves, buy elsewhere or do without. For example, we must retaliate against American steel and aluminum, as Canadians can make those vital products at home," he said.
Poilievre also called on the federal government to use tariff revenue to help affected workers and businesses.
Meanwhile, on Sunday Premier Doug Ford announced the LCBO will be removing American products from its shelves and from its catalogue.
Additionally, Ontario-based restaurants and retailers will not be able to order or re-stock these products.
He said LCBO sells nearly $1 billion worth of American beer, wine, spirits and seltzers.
"There's never been a better time to choose an Ontario-made or Canadian-made product," Ford said.
