A recent Leger poll indicates that 70% of Canadians support implementing retaliatory tariffs against the United States, with 45% strongly in favor and 25% somewhat in favor. This sentiment arises in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of steep tariffs on imports from Canada and other countries. The poll, conducted between February 14 and 17, 2025, surveyed 1,500 Canadians online. While online surveys cannot be assigned a margin of error, the results reflect a significant portion of the Canadian populace advocating for reciprocal trade measures.
In retaliation to the U.S. tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced plans to impose 25% levies on a range of U.S. imports, amounting to $155 billion CAD. These tariffs are set to be implemented in two phases, targeting products such as live poultry, dairy produce, vegetables, coffee, tea, and various manufactured goods.
The escalating trade tensions have also influenced consumer behavior. According to the Leger poll, 63% of Canadians reported reducing their purchases of American products in stores, and 62% have cut back on online purchases from U.S. retailers. Additionally, 52% have decreased their spending on platforms like Amazon, and 50% have reduced patronage of American fast-food chains. Notably, 30% of respondents with planned trips to the U.S. have canceled their travel plans.
These developments underscore a growing sense of economic nationalism among Canadians, as they seek to support domestic industries and reduce reliance on American goods amidst the current trade dispute.