Incoming Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Tuesday that his government will maintain tariffs until the United States demonstrates respect and commits to free trade, following President Donald Trump's threat of historic financial devastation for Canada.
Carney, who will soon be sworn in as Justin Trudeau's successor, emphasised that Trump’s latest tariffs are an attack on Canadian workers, families, and businesses.
Earlier on Tuesday, President Trump announced he would double the planned tariffs on steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% for Canada, escalating the ongoing trade dispute with its neighbor. Trump explained on social media that the increase, which is set to take effect on Wednesday, is in response to the price hikes imposed by Ontario's provincial government on electricity sold to the United States.
Responding to Trump's 50% tariff, Carney stated: "My government will ensure our response has maximum impact in the U.S. and minimal impact here in Canada, while supporting the workers affected."
He continued: "We will keep our tariffs in place until the Americans show us respect and make credible, reliable commitments to free and fair trade."
In response to the situation, Trump posted on Tuesday: "The only thing that makes sense is for Canada to become our cherished Fifty-First State. This would make all tariffs, and everything else, totally disappear."
Meanwhile, CNN-News18 reported that India is considering mending its relations with Canada following Carney's election as the new leader of the ruling Liberal Party and his upcoming succession of Justin Trudeau.
This development comes amid reports that Canada's intelligence chief, Daniel Rogers, may visit India in mid-March for an annual intelligence gathering.