‘Dumb thing to do’: Trudeau slaps U.S. with 25% counter-duties

What’s happening?

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to break the trade truce with Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on March 4 that the country will retaliate with 25 per cent counter-tariffs on a variety of American goods.

During his address on Parliament Hill, Trudeau claimed that the decision to slap one of America’s oldest friends with significant duties was a “dumb thing to do.”

“Canadians are reasonable and we are polite, but we will not back down from a fight,” he said.

“Our tariffs will remain in place until the U.S. tariffs are withdrawn and not a moment sooner.”

Today, the United States launched a trade war against Canada: their closest partner and ally — their closest friend.

Canadians are reasonable, but we will not back down from a fight.

Not when our country is at stake.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 4, 2025

The prime minister briefly touched on relief — mentioning that the federal government is looking to adjust the Employment Insurance (EI) program during this difficult time.

However, Trudeau is looking to remove Trump’s tariffs as soon as possible, not weathering a devastating trade war with various relief programs.

When asked if negotiations will continue, the prime minister said he still plans to meet with Trump until his successor takes the reins.

SEE ALSO
• Trump announces ‘steel and aluminum tariffs 2.0’, Canada affected
• ‘It’s fair to all’: Trump to slap trade partners with reciprocal tariffs

What happens next?

Trudeau told reporters that he will be meeting with premiers later in the day to discuss additional retaliatory measures and necessary relief for each province.

When asked about aid for businesses and employees, Ontario Premier Doug Ford told reporters that he believes the approach will be similar to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ford added that his province is willing to impose a 25 per cent export tax on the electricity it supplies to three U.S. states if Trump’s tariffs “persist.”

SEE ALSO
• Ford warns Trump’s tariffs could cost Ontario ‘500,000 jobs’
• Trump’s tariffs could affect 29,000 agricultural jobs: OGVG

Trump’s response to Canadian retaliation

In a post on social media platform Truth Social, Trump promised to match any retaliatory tariffs imposed by Canada.

“Please explain to Governor Trudeau, of Canada, that when he puts on a retaliatory tariff on the U.S., our reciprocal tariff will immediately increase by a like amount!”

Canadians concerned about widespread layoffs

Economic disruptions caused by tariffs often lead to layoffs — Trump’s sweeping duties on Canadian goods are no exception.

Why Samfiru Tumarkin LLP?

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve helped over 50,000 clients secure fair severance packages — recovering millions of dollars for non-unionized employees across Canada.

With extensive experience representing workers in roles at small businesses and large organizations across various industries, our team provides the expertise you need to navigate your termination effectively.

SEE ALSO
• Should I negotiate my own severance package in Ontario?
• What Albertans need to know about negotiating severance
• Negotiating severance in B.C.: What employees need to know

WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru explains the difference a legal professional can make in certain situations on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

We specialize in assisting non-unionized employees in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia — ensuring rights are fully protected.

In addition to employment law, our firm handles disability claims and personal injury cases.

Call 1-855-821-5900 today or request a consultation online.

Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.