Twenty-nine ways Trump has changed Canada

A year ago, the U.S. President began issuing threats of tariffs and pushing territorial expansion. Since then, Canada has experienced significant shifts politically, culturally, and economically.

Political Changes

The introduction of U.S. tariffs triggered a shift in Canada's trade policies, prompting the country to reconsider its trade relationships and diversify beyond reliance on the U.S. market.
There was increased political cooperation within Canada to resist the pressures brought by the U.S. administration's aggressive trade stance.
Canada reevaluated and renegotiated key trade agreements, including the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), to better safeguard its interests.

Economic Impact

Tariffs on steel and aluminum led to uncertainty in Canadian manufacturing sectors, influencing job security and investment decisions.
The threat of tariffs extended to other goods, forcing Canadian businesses to adapt supply chains quickly.
The market volatility caused by political tensions resulted in cautious economic forecasts across various Canadian industries.

Cultural and Social Effects

The heightened political friction between Canada and the U.S. fostered a stronger sense of Canadian identity and unity.
Canadians became more aware of the importance of maintaining sovereignty over national policies without external pressure.

Quotation

“The unpredictability of U.S. trade policies has forced Canada to rethink its economic strategy and national resilience.”

Summary

Over the course of a year, U.S. trade threats and political shifts under President Trump reshaped Canada’s trade policies, economic strategies, and cultural identity, driving the country towards greater self-reliance and political cohesion.

The Globe and Mail — 2025-11-25