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Trade Tensions Rise as EU Prepares Retaliation Against U.S. Tariff Hike

The European Union has strongly condemned President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, warning of swift countermeasures that could escalate global trade tensions. Announced Friday near Pittsburgh, Trump raised existing steel and aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50%, aiming to protect U.S. industry and bolster a $14.9 billion Nippon Steel–U.S. Steel deal. The European Commission responded sharply, calling the move a threat to transatlantic economic stability and global supply chains. “This decision adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” a spokesperson said. The EU is finalizing consultations on expanded retaliatory tariffs, set to take effect by July 14 unless a negotiated solution is reached. The reaction from global trade partners was swift. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce criticized the tariffs as a threat to North American economic security, while Canada’s Uni...
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Canada’s Labour Market Adds 90,000 Jobs in April, Surpassing Predictions

 


In a surprising turn of events, Canada’s labour market exceeded expectations by adding 90,000 jobs in April 2024. This robust growth comes despite earlier predictions of a more modest increase. Economists had anticipated a gain of only 15,000 jobs, but the actual figures far surpassed that estimate.

Here are the key highlights from the latest Labour Force Survey by Statistics Canada:

  1. Employment Growth: The Canadian economy experienced a significant boost, with employment rising by 0.4% in April. This positive trend follows six consecutive monthly declines in employment rates. Core-aged men (25 to 54 years old) and women both contributed to this growth, along with male youth aged 15 to 24.

  2. Part-Time Employment: The surge in employment was primarily driven by part-time jobs, which increased by 50,000 (1.4%) during the same period.

  3. Sector Breakdown: Several sectors saw notable gains. Employment rose in professional, scientific, and technical services (+26,000; +1.3%), accommodation and food services (+24,000; +2.2%), health care and social assistance (+17,000; +0.6%), and natural resources (+7,700; +2.3%). However, utilities experienced a decline (-5,000; -3.1%).

  4. Regional Impact: Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and New Brunswick led the way in employment growth. Ontario added 25,000 jobs, while British Columbia saw an increase of 23,000. Quebec and New Brunswick also experienced gains of 19,000 and 7,800 jobs, respectively.

  5. Unemployment Rate: Despite the employment surge, the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 6.1% in April. This stability followed a steady rise over the past year due to high interest rates affecting the economy.

In summary, Canada’s labour market demonstrated resilience and momentum in April, defying earlier projections. The unexpected surge in job creation bodes well for the country’s economic recovery, even amidst challenging circumstances.

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