In a retaliatory move to U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating trade war, Ontario has slapped a 25% surcharge on electric powerhouse exports destined to Minnesota, New York, and Michigan. Western Premier Doug Ford made the announcement saying that the move, set to kick in on March 10, is a response to Trump’s new tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods.
“If the United States aggravates the situation, I would not have any hesitation to turn off electricity entirely,” Ford said at a news conference in Toronto.
Ontario expects the surcharge to generate CA$300,000 to CA$400,000 a day, which will be used to help the local workforce and business community. The step is one of several measures introduced due to economic jitters, Quebec too is weighing similar actions. 
The two countries have slapped taxes in May, after President Donald Trump placed 25% duties on various Canadian goods, triggering Canada to retaliate with levies on U.S. products such as orange juice, coffee and house appliances. Even though Trump delayed auto tariffs by one month, Ford downplayed it as just a delay in uncertainty over economy.
Ontarios action shows Canadas clout, as 85 per cent of U.S. electricity imports and 60 per cent of crude oil imports originate in Canada. Ford called on Alberta to slap an oil export tax, sentiments that could just compel US to think twice against its aggressive trade policies, he said in a speech at [venue name].
As tensions escalate, both sides prepare for more economic damage with Republicans said to be at odds with Trump’s trade plan. At the same time, many Canadians are compiling lists for products and events such as sports they refuse to purchase or buy tickets for in the U.S.
