U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 35% tariff on Canadian exports to the United States, effective August 1. This decision, communicated in a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, adds to a series of similar notifications Trump has issued to global leaders as part of his trade strategy.
The announcement could disrupt ongoing negotiations between Canada and the U.S., which aimed to resolve trade disputes by a July 21 deadline and stabilize the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Both Canada and Mexico are now racing to meet the new deadline to avoid further complications.
Prime Minister Carney reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to protect its workers and businesses during the negotiations. He emphasized that the government would continue to advocate for Canadian interests as they approach the revised deadline.
Trump has accused Canada and Mexico of inadequate measures to combat illegal immigration and drug trafficking, despite data showing Canada contributes minimally to the U.S. fentanyl market. The potential tariffs have raised concerns about the future of trade relations between the countries, particularly after a recent thaw in diplomatic ties.
In a separate statement, Trump indicated plans to impose blanket tariffs of 15% to 20% on other nations not yet targeted, with a letter to the European Union expected soon. He also threatened Brazil with tariffs of up to 50%, prompting a response from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who stated that Brazil is considering retaliatory measures.
