Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on auto imports, calling it a “direct attack” on Canada. Carney emphasized that the trade war is hurting American consumers, as consumer confidence has fallen to a multi-year low.
Trump’s announcement came earlier this week, and he declared the tariffs “permanent,” signaling a long-term policy stance. In response, Carney vowed that Canada would defend its workers, companies, and country. He stated that Canada would take necessary retaliatory measures, though he awaited the details of Trump’s executive order before making any decisions.
Carney also introduced a CA$2 billion strategic response fund to safeguard Canadian auto jobs impacted by the tariffs, noting that the auto sector is Canada’s second-largest export and employs over 600,000 people.
The auto industry is crucial to both Canada and the U.S., especially at the busy Ambassador Bridge, which handles $140 billion worth of trade annually. Both Canadian and American workers are threatened by the new tariffs, as parts for auto manufacturing move back and forth across the Canada-U.S. border. Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned that plants on both sides of the border could shut down if the tariffs proceed.
Carney, who was campaigning in Windsor, Ontario, ahead of the Canadian election, highlighted the negative impact of the trade war on American workers and consumers. Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre echoed Carney’s concerns, urging President Trump to reconsider his stance.
Trump’s Trade War: Canada Defends Its Auto Industry Amid Rising Tensions