With a looming deadline for a new trade deal, Trump’s 35% tariff threat on Canadian goods raises concerns about further economic fallout.
Trump Unleashes 35% Tariff Threat on Canadian Goods Amid Trade Deal Negotiations

Trump Unleashes 35% Tariff Threat on Canadian Goods Amid Trade Deal Negotiations
Amid ongoing negotiations, Trump announces tariffs that could escalate trade tensions with Canada.
In a bold move amid ongoing trade negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a staggering 35% tariff on Canadian goods starting August 1. This provocative declaration was made via a letter shared on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, and forms part of over 20 warnings sent to various international trade partners this week.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded, asserting that his government remains committed to safeguarding Canadian workers and businesses as they navigate upcoming trade discussions. Trump’s threats are not isolated; claimed plans for blanket tariffs of 15% to 20% are also in the pipeline for other nations, including a potential new set of tariffs on the European Union.
Washington’s trade tactics have already inflicted significant damage on Canadian industries, with a previous 25% tariff affecting select goods and ongoing steel, aluminum, and auto tariffs in play. Despite this, the media suggests that existing exemptions under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) might still apply to this latest move.
Historically, Canada exports about 75% of its goods to the U.S., heavily relying on automobile manufacturing and metals, making these tariffs particularly detrimental. Trump's latest letter indicated that these tariffs are distinct from existing sector-specific duties. He stated that cooperation from Canada to reduce fentanyl trafficking to the U.S. might influence the potential for tariff adjustments, despite data indicating minimal fentanyl seizures at the Canadian border.
Trade discussions have been intense, with Canada and the U.S. attempting to finalize a new security and trade agreement ahead of the July 21 deadline set during the recent G7 summit. However, escalating tensions show signs of retaliation, as Canada has already implemented counter-tariffs on the U.S. and expressed readiness to increase measures if a favorable deal isn’t achieved.
In the face of these challenges, Carney has indicated progress in combating fentanyl distribution and reinforcing border security, yet the ongoing conflict presents a tumultuous landscape for both nations as they strive for resolution amidst threats of increased tariffs.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded, asserting that his government remains committed to safeguarding Canadian workers and businesses as they navigate upcoming trade discussions. Trump’s threats are not isolated; claimed plans for blanket tariffs of 15% to 20% are also in the pipeline for other nations, including a potential new set of tariffs on the European Union.
Washington’s trade tactics have already inflicted significant damage on Canadian industries, with a previous 25% tariff affecting select goods and ongoing steel, aluminum, and auto tariffs in play. Despite this, the media suggests that existing exemptions under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) might still apply to this latest move.
Historically, Canada exports about 75% of its goods to the U.S., heavily relying on automobile manufacturing and metals, making these tariffs particularly detrimental. Trump's latest letter indicated that these tariffs are distinct from existing sector-specific duties. He stated that cooperation from Canada to reduce fentanyl trafficking to the U.S. might influence the potential for tariff adjustments, despite data indicating minimal fentanyl seizures at the Canadian border.
Trade discussions have been intense, with Canada and the U.S. attempting to finalize a new security and trade agreement ahead of the July 21 deadline set during the recent G7 summit. However, escalating tensions show signs of retaliation, as Canada has already implemented counter-tariffs on the U.S. and expressed readiness to increase measures if a favorable deal isn’t achieved.
In the face of these challenges, Carney has indicated progress in combating fentanyl distribution and reinforcing border security, yet the ongoing conflict presents a tumultuous landscape for both nations as they strive for resolution amidst threats of increased tariffs.