Mon Mar 10 18:10:56 UTC 2025: ## Ontario Retaliates Against Trump Tariffs with Electricity Surcharge

**Toronto, Ontario –** Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States, impacting 1.5 million American consumers in Minnesota, New York, and Michigan. This action is direct retaliation against U.S. President Donald Trump’s new 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. The surcharge, effective March 10th, 2025, is expected to generate CA$300,000-CA$400,000 ($208,000-$277,000 USD) per day for Ontario, funding support for workers, families, and businesses.

Premier Ford emphasized that this measure is a response to President Trump’s trade war and will remain in place despite a one-month reprieve on some tariffs offered by the U.S. administration. He warned of further escalation, stating that complete shut-off of electricity exports is possible if the situation worsens. The added cost is estimated at approximately CA$100 ($69 USD) per month for affected American consumers.

This move follows Canada’s initial CA$30 billion ($21 billion USD) in retaliatory tariffs on various American goods, including orange juice, peanut butter, and appliances. Quebec is also considering similar electricity export surcharges. Premier Ford urged the province of Alberta to implement an export tax on oil to further pressure the U.S., highlighting the significant amount of Canadian oil the U.S. consumes.

The escalating trade war has sparked widespread anger in Canada, with Canadians expressing their frustration through various means including booing the American national anthem at sporting events and boycotting American products. Premier Ford’s government recently won re-election on a platform of standing up to President Trump’s actions. The Premier criticized President Trump’s unpredictable nature and expressed concern about further threats of tariffs on steel, aluminum, and dairy products. He stated that he will continue to take action to maximize pressure on the U.S. until the tariffs are removed.

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