President of the United States Donald Trump announced his intention to impose a 35% tariff on imported goods from Canada, and also warned 23 other countries about the possibility of increasing tariffs to 15-20%. According to the American leader, these measures are aimed at protecting the domestic market and strengthening the position of the U.S. in foreign trade.
This is reported by Finway
Contradictions between the U.S. and Canada
In a letter sent to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Trump emphasized that the grievances against Canada are not only related to the issue of fentanyl smuggling but also to trade barriers. The American president expressed dissatisfaction with the current trade deficit between the two countries and noted that Canada imposes a number of tariff and non-tariff restrictions on American goods.
“I must mention that the flow of fentanyl is far from the only problem we have with Canada, which has many tariff and non-tariff policies and trade barriers.”
According to reports, the tariffs proposed by Trump are intended to push Canada towards a more active fight against fentanyl smuggling. The president also emphasized the need to balance the trade deficit.
Canada’s response and next steps
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded by emphasizing the government’s determination to protect the interests of national workers and businesses during negotiations with the U.S. He also highlighted that Canada has made significant progress in combating fentanyl in North America and is ready to continue cooperating with the U.S. for the safety of citizens in both countries.
Warning letters about the tariff increases were sent by the Trump administration to 23 countries. According to the plans, the new, increased tariffs will take effect on August 1.