Ontario, the most populous province in Canada and its economic powerhouse, announced on Monday a prohibition on American companies bidding for government contracts worth tens of billions of dollars, while also terminating a contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink in response to US tariffs.
“Ontario will not engage with those intent on undermining our economy,” stated Ontario Premier Doug Ford on X. “American businesses will now forfeit tens of billions of dollars in potential revenue. They can only blame President Trump.”
US President Donald Trump mentioned that he had a conversation with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding the severe tariffs he imposed on Canada, adding that they would discuss further later on the same day.
“I just spoke with Justin Trudeau. I will be speaking to him again at 3:00 P.M.,” Trump noted on his Truth Social platform, reiterating his stance that the tariffs are part of a “drug war” aimed at curbing the flow of fentanyl.
Ford announced he was “canceling” a Can $100 million (US$68 million) agreement with Starlink, which was signed in November to deliver internet services to 15,000 homes and businesses in remote northern Ontario.
Starlink satellites were set to begin providing internet services to northern Ontario starting in June.
The owner of the company, Musk, is the wealthiest man in the world and a close advisor to Trump, who is poised to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports beginning on Tuesday.
Ontario’s liquor stores also began on Monday to remove US beer, wine, and spirits from their shelves.
Several other Canadian provinces, including Quebec, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia, were taking similar actions.
The government-operated Liquor Control Board of Ontario is among the largest single purchasers of alcohol globally, supplying its own stores as well as local restaurants, bars, and other retailers throughout the province.
It offers nearly Can$1 billion worth of US alcohol products, or about 3,600 items, annually.
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