Sky News interrupted its regular programming to carry a live address from Canada's Minister of National Revenue, Francois-Philippe Champagne, as he announced the country's response to US President Donald Trump's decision to raise tariffs on some Canadian goods. The announcement followed the collapse of talks between the two countries, and the minister's statement delivered a significant setback to Trump.
Canada announces retaliatory measures
Champagne unveiled tit-for-tariffs on US imports to Canada, describing the situation as a challenge without precedent. "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," he said.
He added: "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. That is the essence of the message this morning, and that's why we are united with you, and that's why we want to present what we have to offer to Canadians."
$7.5 billion support package outlined
The minister presented the "Canada Strong Responses Plan," which includes targeted counter-measures and a support package for workers and businesses worth $7.5 billion. He stated that the government had worked "intensely and in good faith" to reach a mutually beneficial trade agreement with the United States.
"Minister Lablais, our chief trade negotiator Janice Charette, our negotiating team, and the Prime Minister worked tirelessly on behalf of all Canadians, but ultimately, the terms proposed by the U.S. administration were uneconomic, unfair, and ultimately unacceptable," Champagne said.
Tariffs to take effect in September
The counter-tariffs take effect from September 8 and impose duties of 15%, 25%, and 50% across 700 products, including steel and appliances, imported from the US. The measures apply to a range of goods, including alcohol, timber, and clothing.
The development follows the collapse of negotiations last week, after which the Trump administration proceeded with planned tariff increases on Canadian imports on Saturday. Trump has warned Canadian leaders to "fall in line" or face consequences he claimed would be "far worse" than the tariffs already in place.
