U.S. Hits Canada with Tariffs, PM Carney Responds

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that a 35% tariff on imports from Canada will take effect next month, alongside plans to impose blanket tariffs of 15% or 20% on most other trade partners.

In a letter shared on his social media platform, President Trump informed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that the new tariff rate would begin on August 1 and could increase if Canada retaliates.

The tariff increase targets Canadian goods entering the U.S. and is described by President Trump as a response to Canada’s retaliatory measures and ongoing trade barriers. In an official letter made public Thursday evening, Donald Trump explained the rationale behind the steep tariff hike, accusing Canada of failing to cooperate on critical issues, particularly the flow of fentanyl into the United States.

President Trump asserted that Canada’s inability to stop fentanyl from crossing into the U.S. played a significant role in the decision to impose the new tariffs. He also warned Ottawa directly that any retaliatory action would lead to further tariffs. Donald Trump has similarly sent letters to 22 other countries announcing new tariff rates, including a 50% tariff on imports from Brazil.

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized Canada’s strong defense of its workers and businesses amid ongoing trade talks with the U.S., aiming for a revised August 1 deadline. He also highlighted progress in combating fentanyl and building a stronger, unified Canadian economy through major projects and global trade partnerships.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, in a social media post on X, wrote:

"Throughout the current trade negotiations with the United States, the Canadian government has steadfastly defended their workers and businesses. The Prime Minister said that Canada will continue to do so as it works towards the revised deadline of August 1.

He also further said that Canada has made vital progress to stop the scourge of fentanyl in North America. And that Canada is committed to continuing to work with the United States to save lives and protect communities in both the countries.

Canadian federal government, provinces and territories are making significant progress in building one Canadian economy. Carney said that the govt. is building Canada strong. He added that Canada is poised to build a series of major new projects in the national interest and they are strengthening trading partnerships throughout the world."