Sky News interrupted its regular programming to broadcast a live statement from Canada's Minister of National Revenue, Francois-Philippe Champagne, who announced retaliatory tariffs on US imports following the collapse of trade talks.
Canada's response to US tariffs
In a breaking news declaration, Champagne revealed Canada's reaction to US President Donald Trump imposing tariffs on certain Canadian products after negotiations between both countries broke down. He delivered a crushing response by unveiling retaliatory tariffs on American imports entering Canada.
"This is a non-precedented challenge imposed on Canada, but Canada will meet the moment. Canadians will meet the moment. We will meet the moment together. And as the Prime Minister has said, we will support our workers, our businesses, and our industry, with whatever it takes for as long as it takes," he declared.
Canada Strong Responses Plan
Champagne outlined the Canada Strong Responses Plan, which includes targeted counter-measures and a support package for workers and businesses totalling $7.5 billion. He said the government had worked intensely and in good faith to reach a mutually beneficial trade agreement with the United States.
"Ultimately, the terms proposed by the U.S. administration were uneconomic, unfair, and ultimately unacceptable. They asked too much of Canada and offered too little in return," he stated.
Tariffs take effect from September 8
The retaliatory tariffs take effect from September 8 and will impose duties of 15%, 25% and 50% on 700 products, including steel and appliances, brought in from the US. The fresh measures target a variety of goods, including alcohol, timber and clothing.
The move follows talks between both nations breaking down last week, leading the Trump administration to press ahead with planned tariff hikes on Canadian imports on Saturday. Trump has warned Canadian leaders to "fall in line" or face repercussions he claimed would be "far worse" than the tariffs already imposed.
