Trump says he will double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum in response to electricity duties

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the U.S. will increase tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports by 25%, bringing the total duty to 50%. The move is in direct response to Ontario’s recent decision to impose a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States.

Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social platform, stating that he would be declaring a "national emergency" on the issue, allowing the tariffs to take effect immediately. He also demanded that Canada remove duties on American dairy products and warned of higher tariffs on Canadian automobiles if other trade restrictions were not lifted.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford introduced the electricity tariff on Monday, impacting power supplies to Michigan, Minnesota, and New York. Ford defended the move, calling it a response to Trump’s aggressive trade measures and warning that Canada could take even stronger actions if the U.S. escalates further.

"If the United States escalates, I will not hesitate to shut the electricity off completely," Ford said. "I feel terrible for the American people who didn’t start this trade war, but this is on President Trump."

The escalating trade dispute threatens key industries in both countries, with experts warning of higher costs for manufacturers and consumers. The conflict could also strain diplomatic relations between Washington and Ottawa, adding uncertainty to the North American trade landscape.

With tensions rising, all eyes are on potential negotiations to resolve the standoff before further economic repercussions unfold.