The US and Canada share the world’s longest land border and a trade relationship worth over a trillion dollars, making them deeply interconnected. Following Donald Trump’s election win, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau quickly offered congratulations, acknowledging the complexity of the global landscape and expressing a desire to work with the new administration.
However, their relationship has been marked by tension in the past, with Trump referring to Trudeau as a "far-left lunatic," while Trudeau mocked Trump at a NATO meeting in 2019, according to a BBC report.
Despite the strains, Canada’s political landscape may shift further as Trudeau faces a potential snap election, which could complicate efforts to establish a strong rapport with the Trump administration, says former Canadian diplomat Louise Blais.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland reassured Canadians, emphasising the enduring friendships Canada has with US counterparts and stating that Canada’s prosperity and security remain strong, the report said.
Canada’s economy is heavily reliant on trade with the US, with 75% of its exports going south of the border. Trump’s promise of 10% tariffs on imports could significantly affect Canada’s economy. Economist Trevor Tombe raised concerns that such tariffs could reduce Canada’s GDP by $7 billion and weaken the Canadian dollar.
Trump has long criticized NATO allies, including Canada, for underfunding defense. Canada currently spends 1.29% of its GDP on defence, far below NATO’s 2% target. Trudeau has promised to reach the target by 2032, but former US Ambassador Kelly Craft argues that this timeline is inadequate.
Trump’s previous threats of mass deportations raised concerns in Canada about the potential for increased migration across their shared border. Although Canada closed a loophole in a border pact that allowed asylum seekers to cross at unofficial points like Roxham Road, thousands still attempted to enter in 2017, hoping for a more welcoming environment.
With over 8,800 kilometers of undefended border, the challenge of enforcement remains significant, and the potential impact of US immigration policies on Canada could continue to evolve.