In Speech, Carney Says He Had to Fight Back With Tariffs

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced retaliatory tariffs on $20 billion of U.S. imports in response to American duties aimed at key Canadian exports, intending to protect Canadian workers and industries amid worsening trade relations. The measures signal Canada’s firm stance against U.S. pressure tactics and highlight ongoing efforts to reduce economic dependence on the U.S., despite the risk of domestic economic challenges.

OTTAWA — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney defended his government’s decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on $20 billion worth of imports from the United States, saying the measures were necessary to protect Canadian workers, companies, and communities amid an escalating trade dispute between the two countries.

The tariffs, ranging from 15% to 50% depending on the product, took effect just after midnight on Tuesday as a direct response to U.S. tariffs of up to 50% implemented last month under President Donald Trump. These American duties had targeted key Canadian exports following the collapse of bilateral trade negotiations. Canada’s new levies largely mirror the value of affected trade, primarily focusing on goods such as aluminum foil and diesel locomotives. Officials noted that many of the products selected originate from U.S. states that supported President Trump.

Carney described the tariffs as an unavoidable measure. “I don’t believe in escalating the conflict; that’s not constructive,” he said in a video address posted online. “But our tariffs are necessary to protect our workers, protect our companies and our communities.” He acknowledged the likely economic costs but said they pale compared to the consequences of inaction. “There’s always a cost to action. But it doesn’t come close to the cost of standing still. This is about who we are as Canadians,” Carney said.

The prime minister also outlined that the United States’ demands during trade discussions went beyond tariffs, including attempts to alter Canadian laws protecting culture and the French language, which is enshrined in Canada’s Constitution. He criticized the U.S. approach as seeking to increase Canada’s economic dependence rather than establish a true partnership. “In the spring of last year, I warned that America is trying to break us so they can own us. And I promised that will never, ever happen,” Carney said.

Despite the current tensions, Carney did not rule out a future trade agreement, noting that officials from both countries continue to hold discussions even though formal negotiations are paused.

Addressing the domestic impact, Carney pledged support for Canadian industries and regions affected by the trade conflict. “We will do whatever it takes for as long as it takes to bridge those people to a better future,” he said, acknowledging that American tariffs were deliberately designed to inflict pain on Canadian sectors. The Liberal government plans to pursue policies aimed at reducing Canada’s economic reliance on the U.S., though Carney cautioned this transition would involve economic challenges.

The trade dispute has prompted warnings from President Trump, who recently threatened additional measures such as potentially blocking the sale of Bombardier aircraft unless production was shifted to the United States.

Economists generally view Canada’s tariffs as unlikely to significantly impact the larger American economy due to Canada’s smaller economic size. Nonetheless, the measures represent a politically charged response to sustain domestic industries and convey resilience amid escalating cross-border trade tensions.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.