Ontario's premier said the fight against U.S. tariffs has already begun.
On Tuesday, Premier Doug Ford gave his first major address since his party's re-election, promising a strong response to the 25 per cent tariffs placed on Canadian goods by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ford said the Ontario government continues to work with its American counterparts, and he has heard from Americans of all political stripes.
"I've spoken to Governors, Senators, Congressmen and women, from every region, both Democrats and Republicans," said Ford. "They know. They tell me, 'these tariffs are a massive mistake.'"
After warning of the economic impact that may hit American industry after tariffs, Ford said he would hit back.
"The LCBO, the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world, will begin removing U.S. products from store shelves," said Ford. "As the exclusive wholesaler, American brands will no longer be available in the LCBO catalogue."
The LCBO's website was temporarily unavailable at noon on Tuesday so U.S. products could be removed. All physical LCBO outlets are open as usual.
Ford also announced that American companies will not be allowed to participate in procurement practices until the tariffs are removed, and urged all of Ontario's municipalities to follow suit.
He also announced plans to follow through on the threat to "tear up" Ontario's agreement with Elon Musk's Starlink, which offered a $100-million contract to improve internet connectivity in northern Ontario and rural areas. Ford said Ontario will not do business with people who will damage the economy.
The premier also said energy-related sanctions are not out of the question.
"We need to be ready to escalate using every tool in our toolkit," said Ford. "That includes surcharges or even outright restrictions on the critical minerals and electricity that we supply to the United States."
Ford said he planned to meet with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau later Tuesday, along with the other premiers, to formulate a plan to lessen any economic blow.
Despite the new Ontario government not being scheduled to officially take office for the new term until the Legislature convenes on March 17, Ford said all cabinet members are hard at work preparing Ontario's response.