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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...

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Trump Announces Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Decision on Oil Pending

 

President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico starting this Saturday. This decision has already caused significant fluctuations in the foreign exchange markets, with both the Canadian dollar and the Mexican peso experiencing notable declines.

Trump's decision to impose these tariffs is driven by multiple factors, including the influx of migrants at the southern border, the flow of fentanyl into the United States, and the trade deficit with these neighboring countries. The President has also indicated that he is still considering whether to include oil imports from Canada and Mexico in these tariffs, with a decision expected soon.

The potential inclusion of oil in the tariffs has raised concerns about the impact on energy prices and the broader economy. The United States imports significant quantities of oil from both Canada and Mexico, and tariffs could lead to higher gasoline prices for American consumers. Despite these concerns, Trump has expressed confidence that the U.S. can meet its own energy needs without relying on imports.

The announcement has prompted reactions from various stakeholders, with some experts warning that the tariffs could lead to increased prices for American consumers and potential economic repercussions for Canada and Mexico. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in the coming days.



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