In brief
In a swift retaliation, Canada announced counter‑tariffs of up to 50 % on a wide range of U.S. goods, amounts to roughly C$28 billion. The duties target steel, furniture, fresh tuna, cotton T‑shirts and a host of other items, and will take effect on 8 September. Ottawa described the measures as “proportionate” and “strategic,” promising a C$7.5 billion support package for businesses and workers hit by the U.S. tariffs. The U.S. side, led by President Donald Trump, blasted Canada for “unreasonable demands” and threatened to raise tariffs on Canadian automobiles. The trade clash threatens to dent North American supply chains and could spark a broader rift over the USMCA agreement.
Canada Sets Counter‑Tariffs to U.S. Goods up to 50%
The government announced a broad range of retaliatory duties, targeting 900 U.S. products worth around 28 billion Canadian dollars. The tariffs, which range from 15 % to 50 %, will take effect on 8 September.
Finance Minister François‑Philippe Champagne called the response “proportionate” and “strategic,” adding that Canada will provide C$7.5 billion in support for businesses and workers affected by the U.S. measures.
The list of goods mirrors those Canada expects to be hit by U.S. tariffs: 50 % on steel and aluminum, furniture, clothing, honey, cosmetics, and other items; 25 % on appliances, dairy, fish, seafood; and 15 % on certain tools and machinery.
U.S. officials, led by President Donald Trump, slammed Canada for “unreasonable demands” and threatened further tariff hikes on Canadian automobiles. Trump also threatened to rename Lake Ontario, signaling a sharp pullback from U.S.–Canada trade talks.
The escalation risks raising costs for trans‑border supply chains and could impact consumers through higher prices. Canadians surveyed largely backed Ottawa’s firm stance, but critics worry about the potential long‑term damage to the North American free‑trade framework.
For live coverage and community discussion, follow the link below to a short video of Canadian reactions to the new trade tensions.
Watch: ‘Absolutely ridiculous’: Canadians react to new tariff tensions with the U.S.
