Canada needs to show assertiveness in response to the U.S., according to a B.C. forestry executive, following Trump's tariff increase.
Canada has taken a firm stance against the recent tariff increases imposed by the United States, with Premier David Eby's office focusing on protecting workers and businesses in British Columbia from these tariffs.
The counter-tariffs imposed by Canada on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods remain in place, despite the U.S.'s recent tariff increases. This decision is supported by a majority of Canadians, who favour tariffs equal to the value of U.S. policies, even if it may cause financial harm to themselves.
Provincial leaders like Ontario Premier Doug Ford have called for even stronger retaliation, including 50 per cent tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum. However, the Conservative Party leader, Pierre Poilievre, advocates for Canada to accept no less than a zero-tariff deal. Despite these differing opinions, the overall political approach remains firm rather than conciliatory.
While ongoing trade talks are planned, many Canadians prioritize achieving the best possible trade deal and are not necessarily insisting on a tariff-free agreement if that is not feasible. At the moment, Canada as a whole has not moved toward lowering or removing counter-tariffs in response to the U.S. tariffs.
Brian Menzies, the executive director of the Independent Wood Processors Association of British Columbia, supports Canada's stance in standing up to the United States amidst increased tariffs. He believes that standing up for important issues is crucial for Canada's position in advocating for its own interests.
The U.S. has raised tariffs to 35% on some goods from Canada, a move that has been met with disappointment by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Eby, in his statement, supports the federal government's efforts to get a good deal for Canada.
The ongoing trade dispute has raised questions about consumer behaviour, with some questioning if consumers will still 'Buy Canadian.' The Canadian housing market, meanwhile, is in a 'new normal.'
Stocks have sunk on both Bay and Wall Streets, but the loonie has risen following the new tariffs. It is important to note that this is a developing story, and further updates are expected as trade talks continue.
[1] Canadian Press. (2021, June 25). Canada won't back down from Trump's tariffs, politicians say. CBC News. https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-trump-tariffs-1.6107978
[2] Canadian Press. (2021, June 24). Most Canadians support tariffs on U.S., even if it hurts them financially: poll. CBC News. https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/tariffs-poll-1.6107237
- The ongoing war-and-conflicts between Canada and the United States over tariff increases has led to significant policy-and-legislation changes, with both provincial leaders and federal politicians advocating for their preferred approaches in the politics sphere.
- Amidst the general-news of trade disputes between the countries, consumer behavior is being closely watched, with some questioning if Canadians will continue to 'Buy Canadian,' while the Canadian housing market has entered a 'new normal.'
