US imposes new tariffs on Canadian imports over 'discrimination' of American products

The United States has imposed sweeping 50% tariffs on Canadian imports, escalating a global trade dispute. The U.S. administration cited Canada's alleged discriminatory practices against American cars, alcohol, and dairy products as the reason for the punitive measures.

President Donald Trump invoked Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, a provision permitting punitive tariffs against trading partners deemed to discriminate against U.S. goods. This marks the law's first known use in nearly a century. The new tariffs, set to take effect in 30 days, will impact goods including wine, cement, ice hockey gear, dairy products, furniture, and clothing, totaling approximately $20 billion in imports.

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While the Administration continues to secure fair and reciprocal trade deals with our trading partners, Canada, unlike other partners and allies, continues to retaliate against the United States for its efforts to rebalance trade and protect US industry in national-security sensitive sectors.

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that Canada continues to retaliate against U.S. efforts to rebalance trade and protect national-security sensitive sectors. He noted Canada's exclusion from ongoing negotiations with Mexico regarding the USMCA trade agreement.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized the tariffs, calling them a violation of the North American trade pact and asserting that his government had made proposals to resolve trade disputes. He emphasized that such trade conflicts increase costs for families, particularly in the U.S., and expressed Canada's willingness to engage in intensive discussions to address outstanding issues.

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This trade dispute has raised costs for families, particularly in the US. Canada stands ready to engage intensively to address outstanding issues with the US to the mutual benefit of our citizens.