Trump announces additional 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum in response to Ontario’s 25% electricity penalty

President Trump ordered an additional 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports Tuesday in response to Ontario charging Americans in parts of three border states 25% more for electricity.

The tariff will go into effect Wednesday morning, and bring the total US levy on Canadian steel and aluminum up to 50%. Trump also demanded that Canada eliminate their 250% to 390% tariff on American dairy products.

Trump’s announcement came one day after Ontario Premier Doug Ford slapped a 25% surcharge on energy exports to the Canadian province’s three US state customers: New York, Michigan and Minnesota. Ford has also threatened to cut off the exports entirely.

“I will shortly be declaring a National Emergency on Electricity within the threatened area. This will allow the U.S to quickly do what has to be done to alleviate this abusive threat from Canada,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“If other egregious, long time Tariffs are not likewise dropped by Canada, I will substantially increase, on April 2nd, the Tariffs on Cars coming into the U.S. which will, essentially, permanently shut down the automobile manufacturing business in Canada.”

Trump is planning to roll out reciprocal tariffs on imports from around the world, including Japan and the European Union, early next month.