Canadians are being urged to avoid traveling to the United States for tourism until the U.S. government drops plans to impose steep tariffs on Canadian goods.
The Prime Minister of British Columbia, David Abe, made this statement during a press conference in Vancouver, reports Ukrinform.
Abe expressed his frustration with the proposed tariffs, calling on Canadians to stand firm against what he sees as economic harm.
“We will not spend money in a country that seeks to harm Canadians economically,” Abe said. He added that if the U.S. administration moves forward with these measures, Canada should respond in kind.
This could include imposing its own tariffs and other economic restrictions on American goods.
Abe stressed the importance of taking action in challenging times. “In moments like these, there is a choice: surrender or fight. British Columbia will fight. We will respond to tariffs,” he stated.
His remarks reflect growing tensions between Canada and the United States as trade disputes escalate.
The new U.S. president, Donald Trump, announced shortly after his inauguration that he would impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico.
These tariffs are set to take effect on February 1. The announcement has raised concerns across Canada about the impact on the economy and bilateral relations.
In response to Trump’s threats, reports suggest that the Canadian government has prepared a list of American goods that could face high import duties.
The first round of tariffs would target goods worth $28 billion. A second round would affect an additional $84 billion in trade.
Canada is also considering limiting oil exports to the United States if the situation worsens.
The tensions have led to a sharp decline in optimism about U.S.-Canada relations under the new administration.
Canadian officials and business leaders are watching closely to see whether these proposed tariffs will be enacted or if a compromise can be reached.
