‘It’s fair to all’: Trump to slap trade partners with reciprocal duties
What’s going on?
U.S. President Donald Trump signed a memo on Feb. 13 — instructing his administration to determine “the equivalent of a reciprocal tariff with respect to each foreign trading partner.”
“I’ve decided for purposes of fairness that I will charge a reciprocal tariff,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.
“It’s fair to all. No other country can complain.”
The tariff increases will be customized for each country — looking to match the duties they’ve imposed on American products — with the partial goal of starting new trade negotiations.
SEE ALSO
• Trump announces ‘steel and aluminum tariffs 2.0’, Canada affected
• Trudeau, Trump agree to ‘pause’ proposed tariffs until March 1
• How Trump’s tariffs could affect Canadians: 3 key employee rights
Canadians concerned about widespread layoffs
A number of employers have begun to scale back their staffing levels as they brace for Trump’s sweeping tariffs.
💡 KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! Check out our comprehensive blog on how Trump’s tariffs could affect non-unionized employees in Canada. You can also use our free Pocket Employment Lawyer to get real-time insights.
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.
About the Author
Lior Samfiru
Lior Samfiru is a Founding Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and the Practice Leader of the firm’s Labour & Employment Law Group. Known for his advocacy and success representing both employees and employers, Lior exclusively serves clients in Ontario, where his extensive experience has made him one of Canada’s most sought-after employment lawyers.
More about Lior SamfiruRelated Posts
Probation Period in Ontario: What Employees Need to Know
There’s no automatic probation in Ontario. Learn how contracts and ESA rules affect your right to severance - even during the first…
Donald Trump Doubling Steel Duties Despite Canadian Retaliation
The US president said he was considering a 15% increase, until industry executives asked him to make it 25%.
Trump Tariffs Canada: Layoffs, Severance, and Employee Rights (2025 Guide)
Trump's tariffs have already led to major layoffs in Canada. Understand your rights to severance if you lose your job.