President Donald Trump’s explosive threat of 100% tariffs on all Canadian imports has ignited a firestorm across North America. The trigger? Canada’s fresh trade accord with China, forged during Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Beijing summit. Under the deal, Canada dialed back taxes on Chinese electric vehicles; China, in turn, lowered barriers to Canadian crops.
On Truth Social, Trump lambasted the move as a betrayal, claiming it would let Chinese goods sneak into the U.S. via Canada. He ominously predicted long-term damage to Canada’s economy and society, vowing swift 100% tariffs if the pact proceeds. Since reclaiming the presidency, Trump has needled Canada relentlessly—flirting with annexation ideas and clashing over Greenland.
Enter Carney’s sharp riposte: a nationwide ‘Buy Canadian’ drive to empower local businesses and wean off U.S. dependence. His X video message calls for patriotic spending on Canadian-made products, backed by government initiatives for industrial strength and autonomy.
Canada’s long game involves slashing U.S. reliance through expanded trade elsewhere. Plans include doubling China exports by 2030 and scouting opportunities in India. Launched amid December 2025 pressures, ‘Buy Canadian’ fortifies against bullies, especially after rejecting U.S. Greenland defense ambitions.
The standoff threatens ripple effects: soaring costs for cross-border goods, strained alliances, and investor jitters. Yet Carney frames it as a renaissance for Canadian resilience, positioning the nation to thrive beyond America’s shadow in a multipolar world.