Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, is contemplating a series of retaliatory measures against the U.S. should President Donald Trump follow through on his threats to impose tariffs on all Canadian goods. Among the potential actions, Ontario officials are considering a ban on U.S.-produced alcohol and restrictions on the export of critical minerals and electricity to key U.S. states, including Michigan, New York, and Minnesota.
A senior Ontario government official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that discussions are underway regarding these measures. Specifically, the Ontario Liquor Control Board is considering a halt to the import of American alcohol, while export limits could be imposed on minerals crucial for electric vehicle battery production.
Additionally, Ontario is contemplating actions to prevent U.S. companies from participating in public procurement processes within the province. This follows Trump’s suggestion that the U.S. should no longer subsidize Canada, claiming that the U.S. provides over $100 billion annually in subsidies to Canada.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also confirmed that discussions are ongoing regarding limiting electricity exports to Michigan, New York, and Minnesota. Ford stated that such actions would significantly increase energy costs for Americans, adding, “If you attack Ontario, you attack the income of Ontarians and Canadians.”
Trump’s tariff threats—aimed at pressuring Canada and Mexico to curb migration and drug trafficking into the U.S.—have caused concern across the region. In response, Canadian officials are preparing to take measures that protect their economic interests, including possibly restricting energy exports, as Ontario supplies electricity to 1.5 million households in the U.S.
Trump’s comments came shortly after Ford’s remarks, where the U.S. president dismissed concerns, stating, “It’s fine if he does that.” He further argued that the U.S. should not be subsidizing Canada, despite the historically strong relations between the two nations.
