By Promod Puri

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered a poised yet forceful counterpunch to President Trump and the U.S., immediately slapping a 25% tariff on $30 billion worth of American imports starting Tuesday followed by further tariffs on $125 billion worth of American products in 21 days’ time to “allow Canadian companies and supply chains to seek to find alternatives.”

 “Tonight, I am announcing Canada will be responding to the U.S. trade action with 25 per cent tariffs against a $155 billion worth of American goods,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Saturday in an address to the nation.

Facing the media after the Trump administration’s barrage of tariffs, Trudeau stood firm, making it clear that Canada wouldn’t buckle—neither its economy nor its political resolve would be steamrolled by Washington’s strong-arm tactics.

Trudeau said Canada’s response “will be far reaching and include everyday items such as American beer, wine and bourbon, fruits and fruit juices, including orange juice, along with vegetables, perfume, clothing and shoes.”

He said the list of tariffed goods will include major consumer products like household appliances, furniture and sports equipment, and materials like lumber and plastics.

Canada’s response could also include non-tariff measures centered around the supply of critical minerals or energy procurement.

Asking Canadians to stand in solidarity with each other, Trudeau said, “In this moment, we must pull together.”

Trudeau urged Canadians to buy local.

“There are many ways for you to do your part. It might mean checking the labels at the supermarket and picking Canadian-made products. It might mean opting for Canadian rye over Kentucky bourbon, or forgoing Florida orange juice altogether,” he said.

Trudeau added, “It might mean changing your summer vacation plans to stay here in Canada and explore the many national and provincial parks, historical sites and tourist destinations our great country has to offer.”

Trudeau stood up as leader of the country, sending the directive across the border that duties alone would not crush the Canadian economy or the political establishment into submission. 

His message to Washington was clear – Ottawa won’t just take the hit—it will hit back.