In brief
In a surprise move, President Trump announced a 50‑percent tariff on a broad range of Canadian goods, from wine to cement. Prime Minister Mark Carney said he has spoken with Trump and that both sides will "intensify" trade talks, but warned Canada could pursue "all options" in response. The tariffs follow a Supreme Court ruling that many earlier global duties were illegal and come amid fears of a wider global trade backlash. Economists caution that the higher import costs could raise consumer prices, even as Trump claims the move will boost American manufacturing and jobs.
Donald Trump announced in a surprise move a 50% tariff on a broad range of Canadian imports.
Goods from wine and hockey sticks to cement are on the list, while energy, potash, critical minerals and fish are exempt.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said he had spoken with the President, and both agreed to "intensify" trade talks but Carney warned Canada could pursue "all options" in response.
The tariff war, which began over 18 months ago, follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling that many of Trump’s earlier global tariffs were illegal under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
Trump cites the new duties as a boost for American manufacturing and jobs, though economists warn that higher import costs could drive up consumer prices.
Carney’s comments come as the U.S. lifts Section‑301 tariffs on several countries, raising fears of a wider global trade backlash.
