Goodale Warns Canadians Must Stand Ground in Trade Dispute with U.S.

Former federal Liberal cabinet minister and diplomat Ralph Goodale is urging Canadians to stand their ground in the current trade dispute with the United States. 'We did not start this trade war', he said, referring to President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policies.

Goodale emphasized that Trump's goal is not a fair business deal between Canada and the U.S., but rather annexation and subjugation of the Canadian economy. He noted that 50% American tariffs applied on Aug. 21 only affect about five percent of Canada's exports to the United States, while counter-tariffs imposed by Canada on Sept. 8 impact a similar percentage of U.S. imports.

However, Goodale warned that the situation could grow more significant if left unchecked and expressed concern for small businesses caught in the middle. He pointed out that these companies often lack the resources to navigate complex trade negotiations, employing a large number of Canadians but carrying an extra burden due to the tariffs.