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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 Implements 25% Tariff on Steel and Aluminum Imports

 

In a significant move, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, effective immediately. This decision follows a day of intense trade negotiations and threats to raise the tariff to 50%. The tariff aims to protect American industries but has sparked concerns about potential economic repercussions and strained relations with key trading partners, including Canada.

The announcement came after Ontario Premier Doug Ford agreed to suspend a proposed tax on electricity exports to the U.S., which had escalated tensions. Both sides are set to engage in further discussions to address trade disputes and explore revisions to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The tariffs are expected to impact global trade dynamics, with Canada and other affected nations preparing to respond. Critics argue that such measures could lead to higher costs for consumers and businesses, while supporters believe they will bolster domestic manufacturing.

This development underscores the complexities of international trade and the challenges of balancing national interests with global economic stability.

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