Canada Strikes Back: How Canadians Are Responding to Trump’s Tariffs

By A Staff Reporter

When U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on Canadian imports, Toronto restaurant owner Graham Palmateer decided to take a stand. He swapped out U.S.-made ingredients for alternatives from Canada and Europe, cutting American products from his pizzeria’s supply chain.

“I just reached a point where I had to do something,” Palmateer explained.

His frustration is shared by many Canadians, who are reacting to Trump’s economic aggression with an unusual level of anger. The U.S. president’s suggestion that Canada is merely the U.S.'s "51st state" has sparked widespread backlash, with Canadians canceling trips to the U.S., boycotting American brands, and jeering at “The Star-Spangled Banner” during sporting events.

The escalating trade dispute has also reshaped Canada’s political landscape. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who recently announced his resignation amid declining popularity, has seen an unexpected boost in public support. Meanwhile, opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has had to adjust his approach in response to shifting voter sentiment.

Trade War and Economic Fallout

Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on most Canadian goods has strained relations between the two countries. In response, Canada has introduced retaliatory tariffs on $20.8 billion worth of U.S. products, targeting key American industries.

“Canadians are fair and measured, but we will not stand by while our economy is attacked,” Trudeau stated.

Although Trump later announced limited exemptions for certain goods under the USMCA trade agreement, the damage appears lasting. British Columbia Premier David Eby warned that Canada can no longer afford to be overly dependent on the United States.

Trump’s repeated provocations—mocking Trudeau as a “governor” and blaming Canada for U.S. fentanyl issues—have only deepened resentment. Now, Canadians are shifting their shopping habits, strengthening domestic industries, and preparing for a prolonged economic battle.