Photo credit: www.cnbc.com
Ontario Premier Pauses Electricity Surcharge Amid Trade Tensions
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on Tuesday a temporary halt to the province’s intended 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States. This decision comes in light of recent trade discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Ford characterized his conversation with Lutnick as constructive, emphasizing a mutual understanding regarding the vital economic relationship shared between the United States and Canada. “We have both agreed, let cooler heads prevail,” Ford remarked to journalists shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump intensified trade disputes by declaring a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports.
The context for the premier’s decision is significant; it follows Ford’s earlier announcement of implementing the surcharge on electricity sent to states such as Michigan, New York, and Minnesota. This development was particularly timely, coinciding with Trump’s aggressive stance on trade.
Looking ahead, Ford confirmed that Lutnick would participate in a meeting with him and the U.S. Trade Representative in Washington, D.C., on Thursday to further discuss the renewal of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This meeting signals an ongoing effort to navigate the complex trade dynamics between the neighboring countries.
Furthermore, President Trump has indicated that a 25% tariff on goods imported from Canada will come into effect starting April 2.
This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates.
Source
www.cnbc.com