Ontario, Canada’s most populous province and a key economic hub, announced a significant move on Monday, banning US companies from bidding on government contracts worth tens of billions of dollars. The province also ended its agreement with Elon Musk’s Starlink as part of a broader response to US tariffs.
Premier Doug Ford shared his stance on social media, stating, “Ontario won’t do business with those trying to damage our economy.” He added, “US-based companies will now miss out on billions in new revenues, and they only have President Trump to blame.”
As part of the decision, Ford revealed that Ontario is canceling a Can$100 million (US$68 million) contract with Starlink, which had been signed in November to provide internet services to 15,000 homes and businesses in remote northern areas of Ontario. The plan was for Starlink to begin providing service in June.
Starlink, owned by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk, is linked to US President Donald Trump, a key figure in imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian imports starting Tuesday.
In addition, Ontario’s liquor stores have begun removing US beer, wine, and spirits from shelves. This move is being mirrored by several other Canadian provinces, including Quebec, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, one of the world’s largest alcohol buyers, purchases nearly Can$1 billion worth of US alcohol annually, including about 3,600 products.
The announcement comes after a conversation earlier Monday between US President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with further talks scheduled later in the day.