Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed contentment with the recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that invalidated several tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump during his second term. Despite this positive development, uncertainty looms over both the province and the country.
The Supreme Court decision on Friday struck down the tariffs imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977. In response, Trump shifted to Section 122 of the U.S. Trade Act to introduce a new global tariff. Initially set at 10%, Trump announced on social media a raise to 15% after a thorough review following the court ruling.
Most trade activities between Canada and the U.S. were exempt from these tariffs due to the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
During a press briefing at Queen’s Park on Monday, Ford acknowledged that certain Canadian sectors still face tariff challenges but saw the Supreme Court’s decision as a positive step. He highlighted that Trump still retains various tools, mentioning the upcoming CUSMA negotiations and the separate tariffs imposed under Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act.
Ford reiterated his stance against tariffs in a conversation with CNN later on Monday, emphasizing the impact of the trade war on economies and jobs on both sides of the border. Ontario Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Daniel Tisch noted that the Supreme Court’s ruling brings more stability by curbing presidential volatility, despite Trump’s preference for unpredictability.
Tisch mentioned the bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for free trade with Canada, while Ford expressed eagerness for the upcoming U.S. midterms in response to the recent decision. Ford is encouraging fellow Canadian premiers to engage with American lawmakers to address the uncertainties arising from Trump’s trade policies. Additionally, Ford plans to meet with state governors in the near future to discuss these issues.
In the meantime, Ontario remains committed to diversifying its trade beyond the U.S. and attracting investments across various sectors such as nuclear, manufacturing, healthcare, skilled trades, and mining.
