Canada has vowed to respond with “dollar-for-dollar” tariffs on US goods after fresh US tariffs on a wide range of Canadian products came into effect following the collapse of last-minute trade talks, the BBC reported.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada would impose reciprocal tariffs after suspending negotiations with Washington, accusing the US of making last-minute changes to its proposed terms that were “unfair” and “uneconomic”.
The new US tariffs, reportedly reaching 50% on several Canadian goods, will affect products including wine, dairy, cement, clothing and hockey equipment, in addition to existing duties on Canadian steel, aluminium, automobiles and lumber.
The trade talks had shown signs of progress earlier this week, with President Donald Trump saying the two sides were close to a deal. However, negotiations broke down shortly before the deadline. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer blamed Canada for the failure, saying Ottawa had declined to finalise an agreement despite Washington offering favourable terms.
Carney said Canada would defend its interests, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford backed a “tariff for tariff, dollar for dollar” response. The latest escalation adds to growing trade tensions between the two neighbours, with businesses warning that higher tariffs could raise costs, disrupt supply.
