The threatened tariffs on “day one” of U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term are now in effect, as of March 4, 2025. The 25 per cent tax on all imports (10 per cent on energy) into the U.S. took effect at 12:01 am.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement ahead of the midnight deadline, outlining Canada’s plan to retaliate.
At this point, reaction is mixed: we’ve had a month to plan, adjust, discuss, and evaluate a plan of action. It’s clear that addressing Trump’s stated concerns over border control is irrelevant, though Canada’s steps to enforce the border are not a waste, in my opinion. Many businesses have already stopped spending or manufacturing, and some consider the implementation of tariffs preferred to the constant threat and unknown.
Today, on this unfortunate day in our countries’ shared history, we want to know — what is the right move for Canada?
