As the trade dispute between Canada and its southern neighbor, the world's largest economy, escalates, Prime Minister Mark Carney is exploring strategic countermeasures. With 70% of Canadian goods being sold to the US, Carney has identified various sectors where economic pressure can be applied, such as energy exports, mineral resources, and crucial commodities like potash. The Canadian Finance Department plans to announce additional measures to protect workers and businesses on Tuesday. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a vocal critic of President Trump, is open to using the energy sector as leverage in the dispute. He has suggested an "energy surcharge" on electricity exports to the US, which could impact millions of homes and businesses in neighboring states. Moreover, Canada's significant reserves of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and graphite make it a vital source for the US. Ford has also asserted that the US "won't get a grain of sand out of Ontario." The trade dispute has already caused economic pain in the US, with a decision by most provinces to ban US alcohol leading to a significant collapse in US wine exports and a loss of over $350 million in export value. Despite the potential economic impact on Canadians, a majority support Ottawa's hardline stance against the Trump administration. The upcoming US midterm elections could further influence negotiations, with the economy being a key concern for voters and the Republican hold on Congress looking tenuous.