He has argued that these will boost American manufacturing and protect jobs. But the move has disrupted the global economy, and prompted warnings from critics that products could become more expensive for US consumers.

Trump has already imposed a blanket 25% tariff on imports of certain Canadian goods, as well as a 50% tariff on aluminium and steel imports.

Speaking on Tuesday, Carney said he would consider taking action to protect aluminium and lumber companies, two of the country's key industries, and hinted at the possibility of other protectionist measures as the full effect of US tariffs kicked in.

The prime minister previously announced counter-measures including higher tariffs on imports of steel to Canada.

"It will probably be the case in the next couple of months... we'll see other needs for support for the sectors that have been the most affected," the prime minister said at a gathering of Canadian province leaders.

Canada sells about three-quarters of its goods to the US. In addition to metals and lumber, Canada exports large quantities of oil, cars and car parts, other machinery, food and pharmaceuticals.