Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated that Canada is prepared to face off against US President-elect Donald Trump in what could be the "biggest trade war" between the two nations in decades. Trump, who will soon return to the White House, has threatened to impose 25-percent tariffs on Canadian imports as part of his broader economic policy targeting countries like Mexico and China.

"This would be the biggest trade war between Canada and the US in decades," Joly said during a press conference in Washington.

"The Americans would be starting a trade war against us." She emphasized that Canada is ready to apply maximum pressure, with several measures already prepared in case Trump moves forward with the tariffs, which could significantly impact Canadian consumers and jobs.

The big picture

Joly's remarks followed her visit to Washington from January 15 to 17, where she met with US government officials to discuss important issues, including bilateral trade and border security between the two countries.

Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed similar concerns during a meeting of the newly established Canada-US Relations Council.

"No one wants to see US tariffs imposed on our goods. But Canada will be ready with a national response if we need one," Trudeau warned. "We will be strong and unequivocal in our defense of Canada and Canadians."

Trudeau also pointed out that the proposed tariffs would "put American jobs at risk, raise prices for American consumers, put our collective security at risk, and raise costs all across the continent."

Speaking to MSNBC earlier this week, Trudeau clarified that while Canada isn't seeking a trade war with the incoming administration, retaliation would be necessary if the US imposes tariffs on Canadian goods. According to Canadian government sources, Ottawa is prepared to introduce tariffs on American products, such as steel, ceramics, tiles, glassware, and orange juice, with the potential for these measures to be expanded.