Ontario Pauses Anti-Tariff Ads Amid US Trade Dispute
The Canadian province of Ontario has decided to temporarily suspend its anti-tariff advertising campaign in the United States. The decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that he was ending trade negotiations with Canada in response to the ads, which used clips of former President Ronald Reagan to criticise tariffs.
Ford Explains The Move
Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated that the pause was necessary to allow talks with the U.S. to resume. He confirmed that the campaign will continue airing during the U.S. Major League Baseball World Series weekend before being halted. The step came after discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who urged efforts to ease tensions.
Reagan Foundation Criticism
The campaign, which reportedly cost around US $54 million, included edited excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address warning of the dangers of tariffs. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation condemned the use of the material, saying it misrepresented Reagan’s words and that Ontario had not sought permission.
Trade Concerns Rise
The controversy highlights growing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., especially in steel, aluminium and automotive sectors. Canada has reiterated its willingness to negotiate, but the suspension of talks has raised fresh concerns over supply-chain stability and the future of bilateral trade ties.
