Canada’s Trade War Playbook: How Much Can It Fight Back?

Sun Sep 06 2026 09:42:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Explore Canada’s leverage in the US trade war and how it could shake the biggest US partner.

The US dominates trade with Canada, yet Canada’s strategic ties to 26 states give it a bargaining edge. Prime Minister Mark Carney has room to manoeuvre in a heated tariff dispute. BBC journalist Jessica Murphy outlines Canada’s leverage in the spiralling conflict. The story highlights key states where Canada remains a top customer, suggesting Canada can fight back. For deeper coverage, see the latest tariff updates in the linked article.

Canada’s Trade War Playbook: How Much Can It Fight Back?

The US may be the bigger trading partner, but Canada shouldn't be counted out just yet in the escalating trade war between the two countries.

Canada is the top customer for 26 US states, including Maine, Michigan, and Wisconsin, and ranks in the top three for 45 of 50 states. That gives Prime Minister Mark Carney room to manoeuvre in a trade fight.

BBC’s Jessica Murphy explains how Canada has more leverage than it may seem in the spiralling dispute.

Read the latest on the escalating tariff fight here.

Video by Eloise Alanna.