Canada has cancelled a planned joint ceremony with the United States to celebrate the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, following President Donald Trump's announcement of a 50% tariff on most Canadian goods. The bridge connects Detroit, Michigan, with Windsor, Ontario.
"In light of trade action threatened by the United States earlier this week, it would be inappropriate to proceed with a celebratory event between the two countries," said Jenna Ghassabeh, a spokesperson for Canada's infrastructure minister, Gregor Robertson, in an emailed statement.
Tariff escalation strains alliance
Trump accused Canada of unfairly discriminating against US automobiles, alcohol and dairy products, escalating tensions with one of the United States' closest allies. The White House said the tariffs would take effect in 30 days, leaving time for negotiations. Trump has previously delayed or backed away from some threatened import taxes.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a statement about the tariffs that his government believes in the "benefits of free and fair trade" and remains prepared to negotiate with the Trump administration. Ontario Premier Doug Ford posted on social media: "If these tariffs proceed, Canada should respond tariff for tariff, dollar for dollar."
Bridge opening still expected in July
Canada now plans to hold its own ceremony on Friday. It is unclear whether the United States will hold a separate ceremony. Two US officials who spoke on condition of anonymity said they still expect the bridge to open to traffic on 27 July but are less certain than before.
"We remain committed to opening the bridge on July 27th, and to celebrating this milestone among Canadians on July 24th," said Ghassabeh.
The 1.5-mile-long (2.4km) bridge spans the Detroit River and connects Detroit with Windsor. A ribbon-cutting ceremony had initially been scheduled for 12 June but was postponed after officials said the United States and Canada were still working to resolve "outstanding issues."
Project background and trade disputes
Canada financed construction of the bridge under an agreement allowing it to recover the cost through toll revenue. The Trump administration had sought changes to that arrangement. In February, Trump demanded in a social media post that Canada give the US government at least half ownership of the bridge and agree to other unspecified demands, part of his broader clashes with Canada over trade.
The project, negotiated under former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, has been under construction since 2018 and cost nearly $4.4bn. The bridge is named after Canadian hockey great Gordie Howe, who spent 25 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings. It is expected to become another major economic artery between Canada and the United States.
