Canadian official: Tariffs hurt both Canadian industry and U.S. economy

The U.S. Department of Commerce will impose additional tariffs on multiple steel household appliances starting June 23, including "steel derivative products" such as dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators. 

In a televised interview, Dominic LeBlanc, Canada's Minister of Canada-U.S. Trade Affairs, stated that Canadian businesses and workers now face tremendous uncertainty. He emphasized that the doubling of U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs would not only devastate related industries in Canada but also significantly harm the American economy, asserting that "these tariffs should never have been imposed." 

Although Canada is among the few nations implementing substantial countermeasures, such measures simultaneously impose economic pressure domestically. LeBlanc is optimistic that the U.S. would ultimately adjust its stance due to the economic self-harm caused by its policies. He further stressed that Canada's foundational trust in "America as a reliable economic partner" has eroded. 

Should no trade agreement be reached in the short term, Canada will consider retaliatory measures against the doubled steel and aluminum tariffs. Canada is willing to continue advancing cooperation with the U.S., but this is conditional on the U.S. ceasing its tariff sanctions against Canada's automobile, steel and aluminum industries.