Doug Ford, the leader of Ontario province, was among those who criticised the move, which he described as "devastating". The official Canadian response has been more muted. CBC reported there had been a flurry of late-night calls between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Trump, and between the PM and province leaders.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he spoke with President-elect Trump Monday evening about his tariff pledge and vowed to address concerns the incoming administration might have about its northern neighbor.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday said Canada must stay united against a threat by Donald Trump to impose tariffs but two major provinces quickly called on him to address the U.S. President-elect's concerns.