Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cautioned U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance about the potential negative impact of imposing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum on Ohio, as per a senior Canadian official. The two leaders held discussions during a global summit in Paris, amidst the Trump administration’s plan to enforce 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, including those from Canada, effective from March 12.
Trudeau emphasized that tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would be unjustified, highlighting the close alliance and integrated economies between the U.S. and Canada. Following a brief interaction during their meeting in Paris, Trudeau mentioned that $2.2 billion worth of Canadian steel and aluminum exports contribute directly to Ohio’s economy for manufacturing purposes.
While addressing the media in Brussels, Trudeau described the encounter as a short exchange where he underscored the significant economic ties between Canada and Ohio. Trump had announced plans to levy tariffs on steel and aluminum from all nations, with no exceptions, prompting Trudeau to express intentions to collaborate with the U.S. government to evaluate the impact of such measures on both countries.
In response to queries from CBC News regarding potential retaliatory actions, Trudeau expressed hope that such measures would not be necessary but affirmed a firm and clear stance to protect Canadian workers and industries if required. Trump’s objective to boost steel production in Rust Belt states, including Ohio, aligns with the state’s status as the largest exporter to Canada, with over $21 billion in goods sent in 2023, as reported by the U.S. Trade Representative.
Although specific retaliatory measures were not disclosed by the prime minister, his administration cautioned against escalating trade conflicts due to potential repercussions on consumer prices and the economy. Trudeau, attending the AI Action Summit en route to Paris, also engaged with global leaders to align responses to the tariffs. The article also mentions that Vance did not respond to inquiries from Canadian media regarding the tariffs at the summit.
The prime minister’s discussions in Paris and Brussels aimed to coordinate efforts with international counterparts, including attending meetings with European Union leaders and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Experts suggest that the impact of new tariffs may be more substantial compared to previous instances, as highlighted in the ongoing discussions surrounding the implications of the tariffs on aluminum and steel.