Donald Trump slammed Canada on Monday, calling it a “tariff abuser” and insisted that the U.S. would not need Canadian energy after Ontario imposed a 25% electricity bill on three U.S. states.
Ontario Prime Minister Doug Ford announced a surcharge on Monday, March 10, noting that it will apply to electricity exports to Michigan, Minnesota and New York, which relies on Ontario’s power grid to provide 1.5 million homes and businesses.
Responding to the decision, Trump took control of his truth-clarifying social platform, claiming that Ontario’s actions were illegal.
“Ontario just announced a ‘electricity’ 25% surcharge for everything,” he wrote. “Canada is a tariff abuser and has been around, but the United States will not subsidize Canada again.”
Trump further refuted the trade significance of Canada, saying: “We don’t need your car, we don’t need your wood, we don’t need your energy, and soon you’ll find this.”
The latest trade tensions emerge when Trump prepares to propose a series of new tariffs that will take effect on April 2. He reiterated this in his post, saying: “Because our tariffs are reciprocal, we will get it all on April 2.”
Trump has repeatedly targeted Canada’s trade policies, previously imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports. Despite approval of some exemptions last week, about 62% of Canadian import measures remain subject to taxation. In addition, a new 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum will take effect on Wednesday.
Ontario Prime Minister Doug Ford believes that electricity bills are a retaliatory measure, saying: “Ontario will not surrender until the threat of tariffs disappears forever.”
“Suspend some tariffs, make a final exemption – not cutting it. We need to end the chaos once and for all. We need to sit down, work together and get a fair deal,” Ford said in a press conference.
He warned that if the U.S. takes trade measures to escalate, the surcharge is expected to increase by about $100 to increase electricity bills for residents in affected states.
“Let me know: I will increase this allegation without hesitation. If necessary, if the United States upgrades, I will shut down the power completely,” Ford said.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a running mate for Democrat Kamala Harris, criticized Trump’s trade policy and accused them of rising costs.
“Minnesotans struggle to pay soaring electricity bills” are “the first victims of Trump’s trade war.” We must stop this madness. ”
As tensions intensify, both sides remain firm, raising concerns about further disruption in U.S.-Canada trade relations.
