Donald Trump says a 35% tax on Canadian imports will begin August 1. CTV
U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred tension with Canada. He recently announced plans to impose a 35% tariff on Canadian products entering the United States. This new threat would take effect on August 1 and comes during ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries.
Trump’s Letter to Canadian Prime Minister
Trump posted a letter on his social media platform addressed to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. In it, he warned of a blanket 35% tariff on Canadian goods, in addition to any other sector-specific tariffs already in place.
He also added a condition: if Canada raises its tariffs, the U.S. would increase its own by the same amount—on top of the 35%.
Fentanyl and Other Complaints
Trump's letter repeated claims that fentanyl is entering the U.S. through Canada. He also raised concerns about trade deficits and Canada’s dairy supply management system. However, recent reports show otherwise. Data from U.S. government sources and an independent think tank state that most fentanyl entering the U.S. actually comes from Mexico. The report revealed that 99% of fentanyl pills and 97% of the powder seized came from there over the past decade.
Canada’s Response and Ongoing Talks
The Canadian government has yet to respond directly to Trump’s latest statement. Officials from the Prime Minister’s Office and ministries for trade and foreign affairs have not issued public comments.
Meanwhile, Canada and the U.S. are currently in talks for a new economic and security agreement. The two sides aim to reach a deal by July 21.
More Tariffs Already in Place
Canada is already facing existing U.S. tariffs. These include a 25% duty on steel and aluminum, which has affected both manufacturers and exporters.
Just this week, Trump also proposed even higher tariffs on other sectors. He announced a 50% tariff on copper and a 200% duty on pharmaceutical imports. These proposals alarmed many in Canada, especially since over half of Canada’s copper exports go to the U.S.
Canadian Minister Responds
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly addressed the issue earlier, vowing to fight the proposed copper tariff. She said Canada will protect its industries and workers from unfair trade measures.
Back in March, Trump imposed a wide 25% tariff on Canadian goods. However, he later allowed exceptions for products that follow the rules of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
