PODCAST: Trump’s Tariffs, Canada’s Trade War Dilemma, and the Case Against Retaliation

Here we go again. Canada finds itself plunged back into trade drama with the United States, as President Donald Trump has announced his intention to place large new tariffs on a number of Canadian goods.The prime minister hasn’t yet tipped his hand as to Canada’s response, but says his government “will do whatever it takes” and that “everything is on the table.”In this episode of the Rob Breakenridge Show, we recap the week’s developments and we’re joined by David Clement, Policy Director at the Consumer Choice Center. We’ll get his breakdown of this latest escalation: how bad these new tariffs are, why tariffs are so economically damaging, and why Canada should think twice about retaliating with tariffs of its own.Clement also offers his critique of what he sees as trade hypocrisy on both sides, including some of Canada’s own protectionist tendencies - especially supply management with both the U.S. and other trading partners have identified as an irritant.We’ll look at where this is all likely headed, and why Canada need to focus on tearing down internal trade barriers, pursuing new global trade deals, and maintaining a disciplined, unified front. Get full access to Rob Breakenridge at robbreakenridge.substack.com/subscribe