The Ford government is championing Ontario-made wines, vodkas, and spirits in response to potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian products. This initiative is part of the "Fortress Am-Can" alliance between Canada and America, a strategy aimed at bolstering local economies amidst growing trade tensions. The tariffs, proposed by former President Donald Trump, threatened a 25% increase on Canadian goods, including alcohol. These measures were initially a reaction to perceived inaction regarding drug trafficking and migrant issues at the border.
In retaliation, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has taken a firm stance, threatening to cut Canadian energy supplies to the United States if the tariffs are imposed. Ford targeted states like Michigan, New York, and Wisconsin, emphasizing the potential economic impact on these regions. The Premier's sharp rhetoric underscores the seriousness of the situation.
"We will go to the extent of cutting off their energy, going down to Michigan, going down to New York State and over to Wisconsin." – Ford
The conflict escalated when Trump signed an executive order on his inauguration day to investigate alleged unfair trade and currency practices by Canada, Mexico, and China. While this order was not directly related to the Canadian tariffs, it heightened tensions between the countries.
At the Rural Ontario Municipal Association's annual general meeting in Toronto, Ford initially suggested pulling all U.S. alcohol from LCBO shelves if Trump followed through with the tariffs.
"I’ve sent a direction to the LCBO that if these tariffs come, to clear every bit of U.S. alcohol off the shelves," – Ford
However, Ford later moderated his comments and appeared on U.S. news channels to advocate for a renewed economic partnership with America. The federal government has also taken steps to address these issues by pledging $1.3 billion to strengthen border security.
Despite the intense rhetoric, reports from The New York Times and Wall Street Journal indicated that the Canadian tariff was not included among Trump's signed items. This development suggests that the situation remains fluid and unresolved.
"We are the largest purchaser of alcohol in the entire world. They will feel the pain. I will make sure I communicate this to our other premiers that they should be following suit." – Ford
