Canada imposes 50% tariff on US-made motorcycles

Canada has implemented a 50 percent tariff on American-made motorcycles with internal combustion engines exceeding 800 cubic centimeters. The new measure is set to take effect at 00:01 on September 8, 2026.

This action is part of a retaliatory response by Ottawa following the United States' decision on August 22 to impose 50 percent tariffs on approximately 27.6 billion Canadian dollars worth of Canadian goods. Canada’s retaliatory list includes 874 items, covering sectors such as steel, dairy, household appliances, agricultural machinery, paper, and electronics.

The motorcycle tariff specifically targets products under tariff heading 8711.50.00. The regulation is based on the technical specification of engine displacement and the country of origin rather than specific brand names. Consequently, while major American brands like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle are significantly impacted, the duty applies only to motorcycles manufactured in the United States. Electric motorcycles and those with engines of 800 cc or less are exempt from this specific tax. Motorcycles already in Canada or in transit when the regulation begins will not be affected.