US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington will impose a blanket 100% tariff on all Canadian imports if Ottawa goes ahead with a trade agreement with China. He said the United States would respond immediately if Canada deepens economic ties with Beijing.
Trump issued the warning through a post on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Trump Accuses Canada of Acting as China’s Gateway
In his post, Trump accused Canada of potentially becoming a channel for Chinese goods entering the US market. He directly targeted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and said he would not allow such a move.
“If Governor Carney thinks he is going to make Canada a ‘Drop Off Port’ for China to send goods and products into the United States, he is sorely mistaken," Trump wrote.
He further warned that China would exploit Canada economically and socially.
Trump said Beijing would “eat Canada alive" and “completely devour it," including its businesses and social fabric.
Tariff Threat Linked Directly to China Agreement
Trump made it clear that any agreement between Canada and China would trigger immediate action from Washington. “If Canada makes a deal with China, it will immediately be hit with a 100% Tariff," he said.
The remarks underline Trump’s hardline stance on trade and his concerns about Chinese goods entering the US indirectly.
Carney Calls China a ‘Reliable and Predictable Partner’
Trump’s warning followed recent comments by Mark Carney during a visit to China. During the trip, Carney described China as a “reliable and predictable partner".
The visit resulted in agreements to lower tariffs on some Canadian agricultural exports. It also included plans to set limits on the number of Chinese electric vehicles allowed into Canada.
When asked about Canada’s outreach to China, Trump signalled conditional approval, saying: “It’s OK. That’s what he should be doing."
Canada Announces New Trade Agreement With China
In a post on X last week, Carney announced fresh progress in trade talks with Beijing.
“We’ve secured a new trade agreement with China — unlocking more than $7 billion in export markets for Canadian workers and businesses," he said.
However, the announcement appeared to deepen tensions between Washington and Ottawa.
Trump Criticises Canada Over ‘Golden Dome’ Missile Plan
Earlier on Friday, Trump also criticised Canada for reportedly opposing his proposed “Golden Dome" missile defence system over Greenland. He accused Ottawa of undermining its own security while strengthening ties with China.
Trump claimed the missile defence shield would help protect Canada, despite Canadian resistance to the proposal.
Trump Says Golden Dome Would Protect Canada
Speaking earlier at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump said the Golden Dome would automatically extend protection to Canada. “We’re building a Golden Dome that’s going to, just by its very nature, be defending Canada," he said.
He also argued that Canada benefits heavily from its relationship with the US. “Canada gets a lot of freebies from us. They should be grateful also."
Trump Claims Canada’s Security Depends on the US
Trump went further by asserting that Canada’s survival depends entirely on Washington. “Canada lives because of the United States."
The remarks sparked strong reactions in Canada.
Carney Rejects Trump’s Claims After Davos
After returning to Canada, Mark Carney strongly pushed back against Trump’s statements. He rejected the idea that Canada depends on the US for survival. “Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian," he said.
He also reaffirmed Canadian sovereignty and decision-making. “We are masters in our home. This is our own country. It’s our future. The choice is up to us."
Carney Warns Against Economic Coercion
During his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Carney also issued a broader warning. Without naming Trump, he cautioned against powerful nations using pressure and coercion against smaller countries.
His remarks highlighted growing tensions over trade, security, and global influence between major powers.
