Springtime was late so North America’s political-sphere decided to heat up the area in its place. We had the United States and Canada going blow for blow on the big stage for all to see. On March 4 the U.S. slapped Canada with a heavy 25% tariff on all consumer goods and followed up with a 10% energy export tariff coming from Canada into the U.S.
The official Canadian government website Canada.ca claims that “Canada has a comprehensive plan to fight back against the unjustified U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian goods while supporting Canada’s interests”. This shows that Canada is not taking these tariffs lying down even if it is their biggest trading partner doing it.
Canada’s department of finance known as Department of Finance Canada states that they followed up on the U.S. by slapping a 25% tariff on $29.8 billion worth of American products. This battle of tariffs is not only local. According to the New York Times. Keith Bradsher reported “The Chinese tariffs, which take effect on March 20, were also a clear warning to Canada — and, indirectly, Mexico — not to cooperate with the United States on trade”. These tariffs, which are 100% on Canadian canola oil and canola meal. The tariffs have a clear motive behind them. It is plain to see the U.S. and Canada are having a fight and outside powers are attempting to capitalize on this.
How far can this go before the U.S. and Canada’s relations fall beyond repair? Well according to the Canadian prime minister. It’s already too late. According to a CNN headline in an article about a recent press conference, the “Old US-Canada relationship is ‘over,’ warns Canadian prime minister”. Prime Minister Mark Coney was quoted “It’s clear the U.S. is no longer a reliable partner. It is possible that with comprehensive negotiations, we could reestablish an element of confidence but there will be no going backwards”. This gives us insight on the mindset of the Canadian government and their head space on how they plan to deal with this in the future.
Things do not look any brighter on the other side of the fence with the United States President Donald J Trump commenting that Canada should be the 51st state.
One thing is certain: the relationship between Canada and the United States has changed possibly forever. Causing undue harm to consumers who are already in financial struggles and barely able to keep their heads afloat. Will the U.S. and Canada be able to repair their close bond or will their relationship become more and more tense as time goes on. Only time will tell.
