Ontario threatens to cut nickel and power over Trump tariffs

Doug Ford is throwing a tantrum, and he wants the whole continent to feel it. The Ontario Premier, in response to Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods, is now vowing to cut off nickel shipments to the U.S., a move he claims will “shut down manufacturing” south of the border. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s also hinting at flipping the switch on electricity exports. Big threats, but let’s break down what’s really going on here.

Nickel is no small thing—Ontario supplies about 50% of what the U.S. needs for its industries. It’s a core component in stainless steel, batteries, and a range of high-tech applications. If Ford follows through, it could create real headaches for American manufacturers. But let’s be clear—cutting off that supply doesn’t just hurt the U.S., it cuts deep into Ontario’s own economy too. Who’s really taking the hit here?

Then there’s electricity. Ontario shipped over 30 terawatt-hours to the U.S. last year, raking in billions. The power flows mainly to New York, Michigan, and Minnesota, and Ford thinks he can yank the plug as leverage. The problem? Ontario depends on that revenue just as much as the U.S. depends on the power. Cutting off the supply means Ontario’s energy producers lose their biggest customers. It’s like burning your own wallet to make a point.

Trump’s tariffs aren’t about nickel or electricity. They’re about border security, illegal immigration, and fentanyl pouring into the U.S. from Mexico and Canada. Like it or not, these tariffs are a pressure tactic, and Ford’s retaliatory threats are more bark than bite. Shutting down U.S. manufacturing? Not so fast. There are other sources of nickel. Shutting off power? That would backfire just as hard on Ontario.

And let’s not forget—Ford himself is out here bragging about how much alcohol Canadians consume. If this trade war escalates, Ontario might need to double that intake just to cope with the economic hangover.

❗️Ontario Premier Ford says Canada will STOP nickel shipments to US over Trump tariffs

‘It will SHUT DOWN manufacturing’ in America https://t.co/TctatFf9B9 pic.twitter.com/ENxd67kPUk

— RT (@RT_com) March 3, 2025