The ongoing tensions between Canada and the United States have escalated as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to speak with President Donald Trump amid a looming trade war. Following Trump's announcement of steep tariffs, Canada has prepared retaliatory measures, imposing a 25 per cent tariff on $30 billion worth of American goods. This includes a wide array of items such as meat, milk, carpets, and curtains. These moves come as Trump signed executive orders on February 1, 2025, to enact 10 per cent duties on Canadian energy and 25 per cent on all other goods, triggering a significant economic dispute between the two neighbor countries.
In response to the trade tensions, Canadian businesses are adapting by embracing a "buy Canadian" mentality. Leading the charge, Loblaw Companies Ltd. has announced plans to source more food produced in Canada. Shopify's CEO, Tobi Lütke, confirmed that the company will introduce features in its Shop app designed to promote local purchases across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. As Canada gears up for the tariffs set to take effect on February 4, the potential economic impact could escalate further, with Canada's retaliatory tariffs on American imports expected to reach up to $125 billion in 21 days if the U.S. does not retract its recent tariff policies.
In other news, Alberta's law society is set to hold a hearing to sanction former provincial justice minister Kaycee Madu. Madu was found guilty of misconduct following his intervention with the police chief about a traffic ticket. Despite claiming his intent was to address concerns about racial profiling, the law society deemed that he misused his position to influence a personal matter. Madu, now a private practice lawyer, faces possible license suspension or disbarment as a result of his actions.
In the realm of childcare, seven daycares in Toronto originally announced plans to opt out of the national $10-a-day program, which would have resulted in skyrocketing fees. However, these daycares have reversed their decision and will remain in the subsidized system. For example, Sunnyside Day Care will now charge about $478 per month, significantly lower than the previously proposed fees exceeding $2,500. The change comes after additional discussions with government representatives and local daycare operators.
Weather-wise, Metro Vancouver is experiencing a winter storm, with predictions of up to 25 centimeters of snow in certain areas. Environment Canada has advised residents to expect bands of snowfall and localized heavy flurries following a snowy weekend that left much of the Lower Mainland covered. The snow is expected to taper off, but concerns remain regarding icy road conditions due to decreasing temperatures, which are anticipated to be five to eight degrees Celsius lower than seasonal averages this week.
Meanwhile, the popular Tim Hortons "Roll up to Win" contest is making a nostalgic return, with physical beverage cups available for patrons to roll up. After switching to a fully digital format during the COVID-19 pandemic, feedback from customers prompted this return to tradition. The promotion will run from February 24 to March 23, and while Tim Hortons has committed to bringing back the rollable cups for this specific period, the potential for future promotions hinges on customer response.
This multifaceted landscape reflects the economic, social, and political climate in Canada, as citizens and businesses alike navigate the unfolding repercussions of international trade challenges, local governance issues in childcare, as well as the need for community and cultural engagement through popular promotions.
