Trump's Tariff Tussle: Canada Pushes Back Against Economic War

US President Donald Trump's imposition of 50% tariffs on Canada has sparked an economic war between the two nations, according to Siobhán Vipond, Executive Vice President of the Canadian Labour Congress. The move is seen as a bid by Trump to control and exploit Canada's natural resources.

Vipond believes that Trump wants access to Canada's soft lumber, water, oil, and gas, which he sees as valuable assets to be controlled and bought. In response, Canadians are pushing back against the tariffs, with some refusing to buy American produce and others engaging in an unofficial boycott of US tourism.

The Canadian government has warned of 'dollar for dollar' retaliation against the tariffs, which will affect $20 billion worth of goods, around 5% of Canada's exports to the US. The impact is already being felt, with some Canadian provinces banning the sale of US liquor brands and consumers displaying 'Made in Canada' signs at grocery stores.

Vipond notes that while the clock can't be turned back on globalisation, Canada needs to push back against the tariffs and find allies to support its economy. The country is developing major transport and energy infrastructure projects to reduce its reliance on the US and assert its sovereignty.