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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's Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican Imports Set for March 4

In a significant move that could reshape North American trade dynamics, President Donald Trump has announced that tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports will go into effect on March 4. This decision comes after months of negotiations and escalating trade tensions between the United States and its neighbors.

The tariffs, which include a 25% duty on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Mexico, are part of a broader strategy to protect American industries and reduce the trade deficit. The Trump administration argues that these measures are necessary to revitalize the U.S. manufacturing sector, which has been adversely affected by cheaper foreign materials.

Canada and Mexico have been working to avoid these tariffs by enhancing border security and curbing fentanyl trafficking. Despite these efforts, the Trump administration has decided to proceed with the tariffs, citing the need for more substantial progress.

The implementation of these tariffs could have far-reaching consequences for the North American economy. Industries that rely on cross-border supply chains, such as automotive and energy sectors, may face increased costs and disruptions. Critics argue that the tariffs could lead to higher prices for consumers and potential retaliatory measures from Canada and Mexico.

As the March 4 deadline approaches, businesses and policymakers on both sides of the border are bracing for the impact of these tariffs. The move underscores the Trump administration's commitment to using tariffs as a tool for economic policy and trade negotiations.


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