PM Carney: Canada has 'full range' of retaliatory measures ready if Trump's 50% tariffs take effect

Published Jul 26, 10:00 PM UTC

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on July 26, 2026, that Canada has a 'full range' of retaliatory measures prepared if President Donald Trump's threatened 50% tariffs take effect by the August 19 deadline. The tariffs, announced under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, target liquor, dairy, cement, honey, hockey sticks, and some wood products, excluding energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals. Desjardins estimates the duties would impact about C$28 billion in annual exports, roughly 5% of Canadian shipments to the US, with Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia most exposed. While Carney said immediate retaliation would be 'counterproductive' as negotiations continue, provincial leaders like Ontario Premier Doug Ford and BC Premier David Eby called for aggressive responses, including potential electricity export surcharges and continued alcohol boycotts. Carney also emphasized Canada's commitment to diversifying trade beyond the United States regardless of the outcome.