Donald Trump planning to hit Canada with 25% tariff on Feb. 1

U.S. President Donald Trump plans to implement his 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods on Feb. 1.

“Canada is a very bad abuser…allowing vast numbers of people and fentanyl to come into [the U.S.],” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

“I think we’ll [impose the 25 per cent tariff] on February 1st.”

BREAKING: US President Donald Trump says Canada and Mexico will be slapped with 25% tariffs on Feb 1. #onpoli #cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/4Ie8b64WmS

— Colin D’Mello | Global News (@ColinDMello) January 21, 2025

In an update on Jan. 31, the president said nothing can be done to forestall the tariffs — noting that oil and gas will likely be taxed by Feb. 18.

White House denies reports of a possible delay

Reuters reported on the eve of tariffs that the U.S. was thinking about holding off on any immediate action until March 1.

However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt put cold water on this claim — stating that Canada will be slapped with the 25 per cent tariff on Feb. 1.

Reaction from Canadian leaders

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Ford told a crowd at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference in Toronto that he has directed the LCBO to clear “every bit of U.S. alcohol off the shelves” if Trump proceeds with his proposed tariff.

“We are the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world. They will feel the pain,” the premier said.

“I will make sure I communicate this to our other premiers that they should be following suit.”

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Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly

Joly, accompanied by Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, told reporters in Ottawa that the federal government is doing what it can to prevent U.S. tariffs, preparing retaliatory measures if an agreement can’t be reached, and working on “our long-term response.”

“This is an important moment for Canadians. We need to continue to fight for our interests and defend jobs across the country,” Joly said.

“We’re calling on every single political leader [across Canada] to stand united. Now, more than ever, we need to make sure we put country first.”

LeBlanc added that Canada is continuing to have good discussions with its American counterparts about border security and curbing fentanyl.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Jan. 31, Trudeau said he met with the Canada-U.S. Council to discuss the situation.

“We’re working hard to prevent these tariffs, but if the United States moves ahead, Canada’s ready with a forceful and immediate response.”

SEE ALSO
• Trudeau to step down as PM, Liberal leader: Key employee takeaways
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Canadians concerned about widespread layoffs

If Trump proceeds with his 25 per cent tariff, here are five things that non-unionized employees in Canada need to do in the event they’re fired or let go:

1️⃣ Don’t sign anything immediately: Take your time to review all termination documents carefully. Speak with a lawyer before signing anything to ensure you’re fully informed and protected.

2️⃣ Document everything: Save copies of employment contracts, termination letters, severance offers, and correspondence with your employer for future reference.

3️⃣ Use our Severance Pay Calculator: Estimate what you’re owed with our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator. This will help you understand your entitlements and plan your next move.

4️⃣ Get legal advice: Contact an experienced employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package reflects your full rights.

5️⃣ Start exploring new opportunities: Update your resume and begin searching for new roles. Proactively seeking work not only boosts your career, but also demonstrates your effort to find a new job, which is important in severance claims.

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 their 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.