Canada Claps Back! Mark Carney And Trudeau Hit Trump’s Tariffs With A Bold Retaliation
Mark Carney Declares ‘Canada Won’t Bow to a Bully’ as Trudeau Unleashes a $155B Counterattack on Trump's Tariffs!

In a bold and defiant stance, Mark Carney, the candidate for leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, declared that “Canada won’t bow down to a bully” in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariffs. Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on China, including Canadian energy exports. The move sparked a strong reaction from global leaders, with the Canadians, Mexicans, and the Chinese preparing to retaliate.
Mark Carney says Canada’s appropriate reaction is to remain united and fight back with economic action. He described his proposed course of action in a video posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) account. He vowed to impose dollar-for-dollar tariffs against the U.S. to spur more Canadian-made goods, investment in industries, and diversified trade partnerships. It discusses the implementation of Trump’s tariffs, remedies by Carney, and the strategic counterattacks of Canada.
Trump’s Tariff Decision and Its Impact
On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump announced steep tariffs targeting Mexico and Canada, plus China mainly bases his reasoning on economic protectionism and to protect American industries. The move consists of:
- 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports.
- 10% tariff on Chinese goods.
- 10% tariff specifically on Canadian energy exports.
These tariffs go into effect on Tuesday, February 4, at 12:01 AM. Trump believes this will help return manufacturing jobs to the U.S. and eliminate trade deficits. The impact for Canada will be harsh and potentially crippling on its oil and natural gas industry, steel manufacturers, and automotive companies.
Mark Carney’s Defiant Response
Not one to sit back and keep quiet regarding the Trump statement, the departing governor of the Bank of Canada and former governor of the Bank of England did not shy away. “Canada will not be bullied,” he said. And we will not stand idly on tariffs that harm our families and employees.” The governor thought that the Trump administration was urging Canadians to be more calculating while at the same time trying to incite an emotional reaction from them.

Carney suggested a four-pronged response to Trump’s tariffs:
- Dollar-for-dollar tariffs against the U.S. – Canada should impose equivalent tariffs on American goods to counterbalance the economic impact.
- A “Buy Canadian” strategy – Urging Canadian companies and consumers to prefer locally made goods and services.
- Coordinated investment strategies – Increasing government and private sector investments in industries affected by the tariffs.
- Diversifying trade partnerships – Strengthening trade relationships with European, Asian, and Latin American economies to reduce reliance on the U.S.
Carney warned that Trump’s tariffs could lead to severe job losses and price hikes in Canada and the U.S. if Canada does not respond effectively.
Canada’s Official Response: Trudeau’s Countermeasures
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau published a retaliatory tariff plan totalling $155 billion days after the announcement.
Key Points of Canada’s Retaliation Plan:
- On Tuesday, February 4, tariffs on $30 billion of U.S. goods at 25 percent.
- In the next 21 days, add another $125 billion in tariffs to give time for Canadian businesses to find other avenues.
- Strengthened support for Canadian companies to navigate the economic turbulence caused by U.S. tariffs.
Addressing Americans directly, Trudeau stated, “If President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us.”
Global Reactions: Mexico and China Fight Back
Mexico’s Response
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also criticized Trump’s tariffs and announced Mexico’s countermeasures:
- A “Plan B” strategy involving tariff and non-tariff measures to protect Mexican businesses.
- Strengthening economic relations with the European Union and Latin America.
- Denying allegations from Washington that Mexico harbours alliances with drug trafficking groups.
China’s Response
China, already engaged in a longstanding trade war with the U.S., condemned the new tariffs. The Chinese government stated:
- The tariffs “seriously violate WTO rules.”
- Beijing will file an official World Trade Organization (WTO) lawsuit.
- The country will introduce countermeasures to safeguard its economic interests.
The Ministry of Commerce in China has also called upon the United States to desist from such protectionist policies. It has been stated that cooperation and not conflict are necessary.
Economic and Political Implications for Canada
Short-Term Impact
- Increased Prices: This will raise the cost of essential products, especially in the manufacturing and energy sectors.
- Economic Uncertainty: There would be some uncertainty within the economies due to declining exports to the U.S., thus increasing unemployment rates.
- Political Tensions: The diplomatic tension will escalate between Canada and the U.S. during this trade war and affect future agreements.
Long-Term Impact
- Trade Diversification: Canada may increase its trade agreements with the European Union, Japan, and Asian nations.
- Strengthened Domestic Industries: The “Buy Canadian” campaign may fortify local industries and spur nationalistic economic nationalism.
- Shifting Political Alliances: Canada may seek deeper partnerships with countries opposing U.S. protectionist policies if Trump wins re-election.
Can Canada Withstand Trump’s Tariffs?
Despite all the pressure that the Trump tariffs imposed on Mark Carney and his actions consistent with those of the Canadian government under Justin Trudeau, Canada does not bend to economic bullying but only ensures that the interests of the worker, the industry, and global prestige are protected through countermeasures.

Carney’s plan—on tariffs, investment, economic self-reliance, and trade diversification—means a long-run path toward reducing Canadian dependency on trade with the U.S. and its fight against unfavourable economic forces. Quick responses by Trudeau indicate Canada will not allow the situation to drift ahead in such a fast-spreading trade war that is increasing in its might.
In fact, the months will tell if that translates to effects as the economy unwinds and both parties reassess themselves. One thing does stand out: Canada doesn’t take this sitting down and certainly isn’t afraid of being bullied into submission.
Conclusion
These Trump steps may lead to further economic showdowns by Canada, Mexico, and China, preparing retaliatory measures. Trudeau’s swift step is strikingly similar to Mark Carney’s assertion that Canada committed itself to guarding its economy and standing before economic aggression.
Months down the line will tell if it is enough for retaliatory steps. Would Trump’s tariff move against Canada hit its target? And do global alliances regarding trade change direction? One thing is sure, at least regarding Canada—a retort against them.