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US imposes additional 50% tariffs on selected Canadian imports

Jul 24, 2026 United States

The United States has announced an additional 50% tariff on selected Canadian imports worth almost 20 billion US dollars. The new tariffs are set to take effect on the 19th of August

The tariffs were introduced through three presidential proclamations signed by President Donald Trump under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930. This provision enables the US President to impose tariffs of up to 50% on imports from countries that discriminate against US commerce. According to Reuters, it had not been invoked in almost a century.

The White House said the tariffs are intended to offset what the administration considers Canada’s “discriminatory treatment of US commerce” and to improve market conditions for key American exports, including motor vehicles, alcoholic beverages and dairy products.

The additional duties will apply to a variety of Canadian products, such as wine, hockey sticks and cement. These tariffs will apply regardless of whether the goods qualify for preferential treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Energy, potash and other goods already subject to Section 232 tariffs, as well as fish and critical minerals, are, however, exempt.

Jamieson Greer, the US Trade Representative, said the administration considers the measures to be part of its efforts to secure fair and reciprocal trade agreements. He also accused Canada of continuing to retaliate against US actions aimed at rebalancing trade and protecting industries deemed sensitive in terms of national security.

In contrast, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the tariffs as unwarranted, stating that the government would continue to negotiate with the United States while taking steps to protect Canadian workers and businesses.

Image Credits: financialpost.com

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