By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Trump temporarily suspended 25% tariffs on CUSMA-compliant goods from Canada and Mexico until April 2nd, but intends to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum on March 12th, and “reciprocal” tariffs on April 2nd. This reprieve, however, excludes roughly 62% of Canadian imports not compliant with the free trade agreement. Despite the postponement, Canada maintains retaliatory tariffs and Prime Minister Trudeau affirmed that Canada will not back down until the U.S. tariffs are lifted. The ongoing trade dispute has prompted criticism and concerns about economic volatility.
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Trudeau says Canada will not back down as Trump announces a tariff delay for Mexico, and this steadfast stance reflects a growing frustration with the unpredictable nature of US trade policy. The assertion that Canada poses a significant drug threat to the US is baffling to many, considering it’s never been a major public concern before Trump raised it as justification for tariffs. This sudden shift in narrative, readily adopted by Republicans, is ironic considering their frequent accusations of others being sheep-like.
The feeling is that Trump’s actions are performative, a tit-for-tat game designed to create instability and leverage concessions. A temporary tariff delay, as seen with Mexico, offers no real stability and only prolongs the uncertainty. Canada’s response, in contrast, is a calculated refusal to engage in Trump’s games.
Canada’s unwavering position is rooted in the belief that capitulation to such erratic behavior would set a dangerous precedent. The belief is that strong defiance is the only language bullies understand, and that backing down would only invite further unpredictable actions. The ongoing economic consequences, such as plummeting stock markets, only reinforce this resolve. The sentiment is that Canada will endure higher costs rather than succumb to pressure.
This situation isn’t merely about economics; it’s about national pride and a sense of betrayal. Canadians feel deeply wronged by the seemingly arbitrary use of tariffs, and many express a desire to see Trump removed from office before relations can improve. The feeling is that enduring hardship is preferable to caving to what’s seen as unjustified bullying. The current situation has fueled innovative efforts to lessen Canada’s dependence on the US economy, diversifying trade and bolstering domestic production.
The perception is that Trump’s actions have nothing to do with genuine border security concerns. The significant flow of drugs into Canada from the US is pointed out as a stark contrast to the concerns raised about drugs flowing in the opposite direction. This casts doubt on the legitimacy of the stated reasons for the tariffs, fueling the belief that they are nothing more than a power play. The assertion that Canada’s buying power shouldn’t be underestimated is often made, further emphasizing the country’s ability to withstand the pressure.
The consistent wavering of US trade policy is seen as a deliberate tactic designed to maximize leverage and minimize immediate negative repercussions for the US. The feeling is that these calculated delays are just another attempt by Trump to appear decisive while avoiding accountability for the negative effects of his actions. The call for a more permanent resolution, demanding a public statement from Trump outlining concrete steps to address the issues and cease hostile rhetoric, is prevalent.
The perception is that the US is becoming increasingly unpredictable and unstable, a stark contrast to Canada’s consistency and reliability. This instability is fueling calls for a reevaluation of the US-Canada relationship and exploration of closer ties with other countries. The sentiment is that the trade war is driving Canada closer to China, creating potential long-term geopolitical ramifications. The strategic advantage of Canada’s predictable nature and adherence to its word is seen as a potential draw for businesses seeking stability. The idea that the value at stake isn’t just people, but the land and resources of Canada and Greenland in the context of climate change is often brought up. The long term value of these territories due to climate change is highlighted as a possible underlying reason for the aggression.
The overall feeling is one of defiance and determination. Canadians are proud of their government’s firm stance, viewing it as a necessary response to unwarranted aggression. The hope is that this resilience will not only protect Canada’s interests but also serve as a powerful message to other nations facing similar pressures. The repeated threats and backpedaling only serve to erode trust and reinforce the decision to stand firm. This includes calls for more assertive actions, such as halting potash sales to the US, to demonstrate Canada’s resolve and willingness to take decisive action if necessary. The perception is that Trump is playing dangerous games, and Canada refuses to be a pawn.