Mark Carney has declared that one of the most significant trade deals of his lifetime is now ‘over’ as Trump imposes additional tariffs on Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Carney has emphasized that Canada will not yield to pressure from the U.S. or Donald Trump amid the escalating trade war between the two nations.
Speaking to reporters in Ottawa on Thursday (March 27), Carney urged major shifts in the Canadian economy, signaling a move away from reliance on and cooperation with the U.S.
He stated that Canada must “fundamentally reimagine our economy” as tensions with Donald Trump’s America remain high.
On Wednesday (March 26), Trump announced a 25% tax on imported vehicles and auto parts, declaring, “This is permanent.”
In response, Canada plans to impose additional tariffs on the U.S., vowing they will have a “maximum impact” on the country.
Mark Carney insisted Canada would not be backing down from a fight with the US
Carney described the original 1965 Canada-U.S. Automotive Products Agreement as the “most important deal of his lifetime” but declared that, with the latest U.S. tariffs, the previous relationship between the two nations is now over.
The Canadian leader firmly stated that he would not allow the U.S. to weaken Canada for its own economic gain.
“The president of the U.S. is trying to fundamentally restructure his economy, which impacts our economy and the global economy as well,” Carney said.
“I understand and respect his goal of supporting American workers, but I disagree that this is the right way to do it.”
“I reject any attempts to weaken Canada, to wear us down, to break us so that America can own us, that will never happen.
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“Our response to these latest tariffs is to fight, protect, and build.
“We will counter U.S. tariffs with our own retaliatory trade measures—designed to have maximum impact on the United States while minimizing the effects on Canada.”
Carney has previously stated that Canada will not consider lifting its tariffs until the U.S. treats it with the respect it deserves.
He acknowledged that Canadians should brace for “dark days” ahead due to U.S. actions, arguing that the country can no longer be trusted. However, he emphasized that Canada is always prepared to stand its ground.
Earlier this month, as tensions escalated, Carney remarked, “We’re getting over the shock, but let us never forget the lessons: we must take care of ourselves and support one another. Tough days are ahead, and we need to stand together.”
