Former U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to slap a hefty 35% tariff on Canadian imports starting August 1, 2025. The move, he says, is aimed at pushing Canada to tighten its border controls, cooperate more on fentanyl trafficking, and revisit its trade practices.
The proposed tariff is a jump from the current 25%, and while some exemptions may apply—like for USMCA-compliant goods—Trump warned that any retaliation from Canada would trigger even harsher U.S. measures.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded by defending the country’s efforts and vowing to keep negotiating, while critics fear the new tariffs could spark a damaging trade war between the two close allies.
The announcement is part of Trump’s broader “America First” strategy, which includes similar tariff threats against multiple countries starting next month.