Reviewing the emails sent to CBC News by readers reveals a strong desire for Canada to deploy a wide range of tactics in the ongoing trade conflict with the United States, not just limited to mere “elbows up.” The suggestions often include unconventional measures like imposing export duties on energy products to exert pressure on the U.S.
One common query is why Canada has not implemented certain strategies, such as levying tariffs on energy exports, given that the burden would fall on Americans rather than Canadians. Experts like Don Drummond, former chief economist at TD Bank, and former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien have discussed the possibility of export taxes on oil, gas, electricity, and potash as a potential course of action.
In 2025, Canadian commodities constituted a significant portion of various energy imports into the U.S., with implications for both countries. While some advocate for aggressive tactics, such as targeting U.S. energy exports, others like Wolfgang Alschner from the University of Ottawa caution against such moves due to potential long-term repercussions, including revenue loss and strained relations with the U.S.
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Canada has leverage in this trade fight, but economists warn it comes with a cost
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Analysis
The art of inflicting pain: How to select targets for Canada’s counter-tariffs
Economists like Trevor Tombe and Christopher Ragan caution against hasty actions, emphasizing the importance of strategic decisions to avoid unintended consequences. Prime Minister Mark Carney also underlines the significance of maintaining Canada’s reliability as an energy supplier.
Why not consider banning the sale of specific goods in Canada?
Some provinces, except Alberta and Saskatchewan, have already imposed restrictions on American goods, particularly alcohol. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, however, has refrained from endorsing widespread bans, emphasizing a calculated and targeted approach in response to the trade dispute.
