US President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on a wide range of goods imported from Canada, in retaliation for what he called “unequal treatment” of US cars, dairy and alcohol.
Everyday consumer items like wine and hockey sticks and industrial goods such as cement are among the goods targeted. However, several key exports will be spared, such as energy, potash, critical minerals and fish.
Prime Minister Mark Carney responded by saying Canada stood ready to “intensify” trade talks with US in the coming weeks.
The White House said the duties would take effect in 30 days. It marks a major escalation in trade tensions between the North American neighbours.
The new duties apply to all covered goods regardless of whether the product was included under the existing free trade agreement between Canada, the US and Mexico, known as the USMCA.
