Premier Doug Ford criticized the U.S. decision to raise tariffs to 35 per cent and called on Canada to respond by placing tougher duties on American steel and aluminum. CTV News
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is not staying quiet about the United States increasing tariffs on Canadian goods to 35 per cent. In a strong message on social media, he told Canadians not to accept a bad deal. “Now is not the time to roll over,” Ford said, urging Canada to stand firm.
Tariffs Hit Key Canadian Sectors
Ford expressed deep concern about U.S. tariffs still targeting many industries, including steel, aluminum, copper, forestry, and autos. He said these unfair measures hurt Canada and called on Prime Minister Mark Carney to respond by placing a 50 per cent tariff on American steel and aluminum.
He reminded Canadians of the country’s strong position. “Canada has what the United States needs,” Ford said, listing resources like oil, gas, electricity, and minerals. He believes Canada should use this advantage in trade talks.
Ford Wants Stronger Action
During a visit to Thunder Bay, Ford repeated his message. “Hit that guy back as hard as we possibly can,” he said, referring to U.S. President Donald Trump. Ford insisted Canada could build everything it needs at home — from trains and cars to satellites and jet engines.
He added that both he and Prime Minister Carney were elected to protect Canada from Trump’s threats. However, recent talks between the two countries haven’t made much progress.
Trump Threatens More Tariffs
Trump warned that he could go ahead with the 35 per cent tariff increase if a deal isn’t reached by Friday. Goods covered under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) would not be affected. But Trump also posted on social media that Canada’s support for recognizing Palestine may make any deal harder.
The U.S. has taken a tough approach with its trade partners recently. Ford said Carney is trying, but dealing with Trump is difficult. “He says one thing and does another,” Ford said. “How do you deal with a guy like this?”
Ontario Boosts Local Economy
In response to the uncertain trade future, Ford said Ontario is taking steps to become more self-reliant. He announced a $200 billion investment in infrastructure. He also wants to grow local industries like aluminum and tin can production to reduce dependence on U.S. imports.
“We’ll make aluminum cans here,” Ford said. “The U.S. will lose billions in business.”
He also urged Canadians to support local products and businesses.
Push for Made-in-Ontario Subway Cars
Ford also spoke about a $758 million project to buy 55 new subway cars for Toronto’s Line 2. He wants the contract to go to Alstom, which has a factory in Ontario. “There’s no way we’re building them anywhere else,” he said.
He called on the city and federal government to make the deal with Alstom, saying it would help keep Ontario jobs.
