Ontario Premier Doug Ford has declared the province will "not back down" after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to double tariffs on steel and aluminum, responding to Ford's recent imposition of a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States. This statement came during Ford's appearance on MSNBC on March 11, 2025, following Trump's announcement of planned tariff increases set to take effect the following day.
Ford expressed his frustration with Trump's actions, labeling them as unprovoked attacks on Canada, calling for cooperation instead. "I apologize to the American people... It’s unacceptable," Ford stated, emphasizing the need for both countries to work together rather than escalate tensions. He cautioned the repercussions of continuing this tariff war, which could lead to U.S. factory shutdowns, particularly hurting assembly plants across Michigan and beyond.
The surcharges imposed by Ontario—which took effect on March 10, 2025—are expected to generate approximately $400,000 daily, directly impacting the energy needs of 1.5 million homes and businesses across Michigan, Minnesota, and New York. The move was described as a necessary step in response to what Ford termed as abusive tariffs from the U.S. and aims to protect Ontario's economy and jobs.
"We will be relentless," Ford reiterated during the interview on MSNBC, asserting Ontario's stance on tariffs and the importance of energy exports. He pointed out the economic interdependence of the two nations, stressing, "You need our electricity. You need our high-grade nickel,” highlighting the resources Ontario supplies to the U.S. economy.
On the other hand, Trump’s response to Ontario's actions has been combative, threatening to implement reciprocal tariffs starting April 2, 2025, on all nations imposing tariffs on U.S. goods. He described Canada as being historically abusive, stating, "Canada is a Tariff abuser, and always has been... we’ll just get it all back on April 2." His rhetoric also extended to suggest the potential permanent shutdown of Canadian auto manufacturing, making matters even more perilous for all parties involved.
Ford pleaded with American business leaders and the general public to rally against the tariffs, encouraging them to voice their concerns. He noted the paradox of Trump attacking his closest allies and questioned the rationale behind the U.S. turning on Canada. "We need the American people to speak up," he urged, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and addressing shared challenges rather than inflaming tensions.
He elaborated on the potential consequences: "If this continues, it’s not just American and Canadian—it’s going to affect the whole world." Ford pointed to the rising markets of China as a growing threat, urging both countries to focus on constructive dialogue rather than conflict, to leverage their strengths for mutual benefits.
Despite the hostile remarks exchanged, Ford remained optimistic about the potential for resolution. He urged Trump to redirect his fire at competing international entities instead of his allies, highlighting the need for collaboration to address shared concerns about trade inequities and economic stability.
Reflecting on Ontario’s policy decisions, Ford indicated he would “respond appropriately” should the trade war escalate. He underscored the notion of taking action but also demonstrated willingness to negotiate to find common ground. His previous assertion of being prepared to cut off electricity to neighboring states serves as both leverage and as pressing warning on the brinkmanship with which both sides may now find themselves.
Ford remains steadfast, pledging to enforce retaliatory measures until all U.S. tariffs are lifted, and he warns Trump’s approach could lead not only to job losses but also substantial financial strains on consumers through increased costs and diminished market stability. He believes these trade disputes pose significant risks not just for North American economies, but for global commerce as well.
With the U.S. commerce sector feeling the pressure of plunging stock markets, Ford’s calculated strategy appears aimed at bringing attention to the plight of manufacturers who depend on cross-border trade. The outcome of this trade spat may potentially alter economic landscapes across both nations, shaped by the actions— or reactions— of political leaders on both sides.
Meanwhile, as tensions rise, both leaders will have to navigate their increasingly precarious political landscapes, weighing the costs of their trade wars against the pressing need for stability and cooperation. While Canada and the U.S. share deep-rooted ties, the future of these relationships increasingly seems to hang on the balance as words become actions, and retaliatory measures threaten livelihoods on both sides of the border.