• Canada's Ambassador Kirsten Hillman confirms plans to increase U.S. imports.
• Military procurements, including a new submarine fleet, may be sourced from the U.S.
• The ambassador warns against the detrimental effects of proposed 25% tariffs.
• Canada intends to retaliate if tariffs are imposed, affecting American consumers.
• Hillman stresses that collaboration is vital to counter challenges from China.

Canada’s Ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, has expressed the country's readiness to augment its imports from the U.S. in light of President Donald Trump’s threats to levy steep tariffs on Canadian goods. Speaking from Palm Desert, California, Hillman emphasized that Canada is willing to source more from its southern neighbor, particularly with critical military procurements on the horizon, such as the replacement of its entire submarine fleet. “We are happy to source what we can from the United States, and we have some big military procurements coming up,” she stated, as reported by The Hill.

Hillman cautioned that imposing a 25% tariff would lead to immediate price increases for American consumers, stating, “At a time when the cost of living is challenging, when food prices are high, it seems like the wrong direction to go in.” According to her, Canada is currently the U.S.'s largest trading partner, and a significant portion of military procurement—approximately 70%—is sourced from the U.S. She further indicated that Canada would resist any new tariffs, asserting, “Canada will respond,” which implies potential price hikes on American products as Canadians might seek alternatives.

The ambassador also characterized Trump’s negotiating approach as involving bold rhetoric, reiterating that such tactics could be counterproductive for both nations. Hillman underlined the importance of maintaining a robust alliance with the U.S. to counterbalance external pressures, particularly from adversaries like China. “If we are working at odds then frankly China wins,” Hillman asserted, highlighting the need for cooperation to navigate economic and security challenges.

Overall, Hillman’s remarks reflect Canada’s strategic intent to bolster relations with the U.S. amid trade tensions while also preparing for potential retaliatory measures if tariffs come into effect. The broader implications of these developments could reshape the trading dynamics within North America, as officials from both sides navigate the complexities of trade and diplomatic relations.

For additional insights, check the full report by AP News.