3 April: Prime Minister Mark Carney has formally unveiled Canada’s countermeasures in response to the latest round of U.S. tariffs, announcing a 25% levy on all U.S.-made vehicles that do not comply with the CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) trade framework. While these new tariffs will spare auto parts, Carney emphasized the importance of protecting Canada’s integrated production system.
In a detailed press conference on Parliament Hill, Carney framed the announcement not just as a trade response but as a broader call to national resilience. He acknowledged that the escalating trade conflict with the United States will be difficult for Canadians, but expressed confidence in the country’s ability to adapt and emerge stronger.
“This won’t be easy—it will involve difficult decisions and real sacrifice,” Carney said, “but our children deserve to grow up with dreams of a secure future, not fears of economic collapse.” He reminded Canadians that the country has overcome immense challenges in its past and can do so again.
As part of his longer-term strategy, the Prime Minister stated that Canada is ready to take a leadership role on the global stage if the U.S. retreats from its traditional position on trade. “If the United States no longer wants to lead, Canada will,” he declared, underlining his commitment to forming stronger partnerships with other pro-trade nations.
Carney also noted that while no new call with U.S. President Donald Trump is currently scheduled, he had already advised Trump last month about Canada’s intent to respond to the auto tariffs. He indicated that further conversations would take place “if appropriate.”
Looking ahead, Carney said the time had come to “renegotiate our relationship with the United States,” but clarified that such talks would begin after the federal election.
The Prime Minister’s speech, while rooted in hard policy, shifted into a motivational tone as he urged Canadians to stay focused and united during what he called a defining moment in the country’s trade and economic history.
