Canada’s federal government released a list of more than 700 U.S. products that will face new counter‑tariffs beginning Sept. 8. The move is a direct response to President Donald Trump’s latest round of import duties, which have deepened the trade dispute between the two North American neighbors.
Scope and rates of the new duties
The Canadian Treasury said the levies will be set at three levels—15%, 25% or 50%—matching the rates Washington imposed on the same categories of goods. The list includes everyday items such as live and frozen fish, crustaceans, oysters, cheese, natural honey, perfume, floor coverings, toilet paper, clothing, metal products made of steel or aluminum, household appliances, smartphones, video‑game consoles, motorcycles and trailers.
For many American steel and aluminum products, the new duties will double the existing 25% rate to 50%, effectively matching the sectoral tariff the United States already applies to most steel imports worldwide.
Background on the trade conflict
Trump’s administration activated a long‑dormant provision of the Tariff Act of 1930, allowing the president to impose up to 50% duties on goods from countries that, in his view, discriminate against U.S. businesses. Earlier this month, the United States rolled out 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, ranging from honey to hockey sticks. While that represents only about 5% of the total value of Canadian exports to the United States, the high rate adds pressure to an already strained relationship.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that the proposed 50% tariff on Canadian autos, trucks, automotive parts and steel—scheduled to begin Jan. 1, 2027—could “gradually dismantle” domestic production and undermine major industries.
Potential impact on consumers
Both governments acknowledge that higher duties will likely be passed on to consumers. Businesses on both sides of the border may see increased costs for raw materials and finished products, which could translate into higher prices at the checkout line.
In addition to the tariff measures, President Trump recently suggested the United States is considering renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America,” a symbolic gesture that has drawn criticism from Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who warned his province could restrict electricity and critical mineral exports to the United States if the trade war escalates further.
What comes next?
Canada’s counter‑tariff list is expected to be implemented on Sept. 8, with the government monitoring the situation for any further escalation. Both sides have signaled that additional measures remain possible, keeping businesses and households on both sides of the border on alert for future price pressures.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
