Trump announces 50% tariffs on Canadian autos and steel

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a plan to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian automobiles, trucks, auto parts, and steel. The move follows the collapse of trade negotiations between the two nations. Trump stated that Canada has created a $60-billion trade deficit and urged companies to manufacture within the United States to avoid the levies.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will implement retaliatory measures on a “dollar for dollar” basis starting September 8. Carney noted that recent negotiations failed because U.S. demands would “permanently disadvantage” Canadian industries.

The tariffs are expected to affect approximately 5% of Canada’s annual exports to the U.S., involving roughly $20 billion in goods including agricultural products. Canadian provincial leaders, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, have expressed support for the federal government's stance, calling for assistance to help businesses and workers manage potential supply-chain disruptions and rising costs.