Ontario Premier Doug Ford has made it clear that he’s prepared to take serious action if the United States imposes new tariffs on Canadian goods, according to CBC.
His warning comes after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced plans for a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Canada.
The proposal has raised concerns across the Canadian government, prompting discussions about possible retaliation.
Ford stated that Ontario is ready to defend itself if necessary. He mentioned the possibility of cutting energy exports to key U.S. states like Michigan, New York, and Wisconsin.
“I don’t want that to happen,” Ford said. “But my number one job is to protect Ontario, Ontarians, and Canadians as a whole. We are the largest province, and we will use all tools at our disposal.”
Energy exports are a significant part of the relationship between Ontario and the United States. Cutting them off could have major implications on both sides of the border.
Ford emphasized that such measures would only be considered if the U.S. tariffs were enforced.
Ford joined other provincial leaders for a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to address Trump’s threats.
The U.S. President-elect has argued that Canada needs to strengthen security at the Canada-U.S. border, tying this issue to trade. Ford and Trudeau discussed possible countermeasures and the broader impact of the proposed tariffs.
The situation has already drawn attention at the highest levels. In November, Trudeau traveled to Florida to meet with Trump and discuss trade policy.
Trudeau reportedly warned that the tariffs would hurt not just Canada but also the U.S., driving up prices and disrupting industries on both sides of the border.
The dispute has also sparked some unusual comments. Trump recently referred to Trudeau as the “governor” of Canada, a remark that drew both confusion and humor in Canada.
For now, the tension between the two nations continues to grow, leaving both governments to prepare for a potential trade conflict.
