Canadian government already bracing for potential Trump tariffs [Video]

Canada is preparing for the possibility of former U.S. president Donald Trump swiftly imposing a broad tariff on all U.S. imports if he’s re-elected Tuesday, potentially sparking a damaging trade dispute. 

Canadian officials received no reassurances in conversations with multiple Trump allies ahead of next week’s vote, CBC News has learned from one official privy to the details of these talks.

Trump’s proposal for a minimum 10 per cent global tariff has raised more alarms in Ottawa than any other promise by either U.S. presidential candidate.

To better understand how this might unfold, Canadian officials have consulted with contacts who were part of Trump’s Treasury Department and trade office, including some likely to return to government if he wins.

Their concerns were not allayed.

“All indications are that former president Trump is committed to imposing tariffs, and doing it quickly,” said one Canadian official with insight into these talks.