Source NDTV
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Canadian goods if Ottawa proceeds with a major trade agreement with China, escalating rhetoric that could strain North American trade relations.
Speaking at a campaign-style event, Trump criticized Canada’s growing economic engagement with Beijing, arguing that closer trade ties with China would undermine U.S. interests and regional supply chains. He claimed that such a deal would amount to “unfair competition” and vowed swift retaliation if he returns to office.
“Canada cannot have it both ways,” Trump said, asserting that the United States would respond with the harshest possible tariffs to protect American industries and workers. The warning marks one of his strongest trade-related statements targeting a close U.S. ally.
Canadian officials have not confirmed any final trade agreement with China but have acknowledged ongoing discussions aimed at expanding market access and investment opportunities. Ottawa has consistently maintained that its trade policy is guided by national interests and international rules, while also emphasizing the importance of its economic relationship with the United States.
Trade experts warn that a 100% tariff threat, even if hypothetical, could unsettle markets and disrupt deeply integrated supply chains across North America. Canada is one of the United States’ largest trading partners, with billions of dollars in goods and services crossing the border each year.
The comments also reflect Trump’s broader hardline stance on China, which has been a central theme of his political platform. During his presidency, the U.S. imposed sweeping tariffs on Chinese imports, triggering a prolonged trade war that affected global markets.
As the U.S. election cycle intensifies, Trump’s remarks are likely to draw sharp reactions both domestically and internationally, with allies watching closely for signals of potential shifts in American trade policy.
