Trump Threatens 35% Tariff On Canadian Goods Amid Trade Tensions

US President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 35% tariff on Canadian goods beginning August 1, raising fresh concerns over trade relations between the two neighbouring countries.

The announcement was made via a letter posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he also warned of broader tariffs ranging from 15% to 20% on several US trade partners.

Trump stated that the 35% levy was separate from existing sector-specific tariffs, adding that Canada could avoid the tariffs if its companies moved production to the US.

“There will be no tariff if Canada, or companies within your country, decide to build or manufacture products within the United States,” Trump declared.

He linked the tariffs to what he described as Canada’s failure to stop fentanyl from entering the US, as well as its tariffs on US dairy products and the trade imbalance.

“If Canada works with me to stop the flow of fentanyl, we will, perhaps, consider an adjustment to this letter,” he said, adding that the tariffs “may be modified, upward or downward, depending on our relationship.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded on X (formerly Twitter), assuring Canadians that his government was working to protect workers and businesses, while noting Canada’s ongoing efforts to tackle the fentanyl crisis.

Data from US Customs and Border Protection shows that only about 0.2% of all fentanyl seizures occur at the Canadian border, with the vast majority intercepted at the US-Mexico border.

Carney also highlighted Canada’s recent actions, including increased funding for border security and the appointment of a “fentanyl czar.”

The US has already slapped a blanket 25% tariff on some Canadian goods and imposed global tariffs of 50% on aluminium and steel imports and 25% on all foreign-made vehicles. A 50% tariff on copper imports is also set to begin next month.

With around 75% of Canadian exports destined for the US, including autos and metals, the new tariff threat could have serious economic implications—especially if it affects goods covered under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which remains uncertain.

Trump has issued similar letters to over 20 other trade partners this week, warning of potential tariffs to be enforced from August 1.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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