The True Post(Web News) US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, raising import tariffs on products from Canada to 35%.
Which became effective on Friday (today). The decision is based on Trump’s accusation that Canada “failed to stop the flood of fentanyl and other illegal drugs through the northern border”. The move is a further tightening of the 25% tariff imposed in March 2025. The new policy states that while most Canadian exports will be exempted under the *Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)*, the increase will apply to products that are not covered by the agreement.
New tariff policy at the global level
Trump on Thursday imposed new import tariffs ranging from 15 to 41 percent on dozens of countries around the world through another executive order, which could lead to further tensions in global trade relations. However, temporary relief has been given to Mexico, where Trump gave a 90-day reprieve after talks with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Earlier, Mexico was also threatened with an increase in tariffs from August 1.
Reaction to the recognition of a Palestinian state
Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump said that he certainly disliked Canada’s announcement in September to recognize a Palestinian state, but that it would not be a reason to break off trade talks. He said: “I didn’t like their statement, but that’s their opinion. It’s not a deal breaker. We didn’t talk to Canada today, but they called, so we’ll see.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s silence
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office neither confirmed the call to the White House nor commented on any details of the talks. However, the Canadian negotiating team is in Washington, but it has been silent about who it is meeting with.
Political reaction
Canada’s opposition parties have strongly condemned the US move. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilier said on social media platforms that “these tariffs are completely unjustified. We are hopeful that we will continue to negotiate until we have a full agreement — which means zero tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, energy, agriculture, everything else — that is the deal we had before, and the prime minister should not accept anything less.” Ontario Premier Doug Ford also expressed serious concern about the tariff hike and urged the federal government to take countermeasures. “Now is the time for us not to back down. We must impose a 50% retaliatory tariff on our steel and aluminum.”
Public and commercial reaction
The decision has raised concerns among Canadians and businesses, especially small businesses that rely on the U.S. market. CBC’s Cross Country Checkup* asked the public about the challenges they face in buying Canadian products. Trump’s move is a wake-up call not only for Canada but also for global trade. While he is trying to strengthen his voter base at home, these policies could damage relations with close allies. Canada now needs to rethink its trade strategy — the question is, will Ottawa respond effectively or will this tense situation be resolved through negotiations?
