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Canada Imposes C$27.6B U.S. Tariff Retaliation, Starts Sept. 8

8/28/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Canada announced counter-tariffs on U.S. goods worth C$27.6 billion, effective 8 September, matching 50% duties.
Canada paired the duties with a C$7.5 billion aid program for small- and medium-sized firms.
The tariffs cover more than 700 products, including steel, aluminium, dairy, appliances and electronics, at 15-50% rates.
Canada exempted fish and other seafood from the duties after industry feedback.

History

Historical Context

On March 20 2002 President George W. Bush imposed 8–30 % steel tariffs, exempting Canada under NAFTA to shield a struggling U.S. industry. The WTO ruled the measures illegal on 11 Nov 2003, authorizing over $2 billion in sanctions and forcing the tariffs’ removal on 4 Dec 2003. That episode set a precedent for the reciprocal duties Canada announced in 2024 under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

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Story summary

Canada announced counter-tariffs on U.S. goods worth C$27.6 billion, effective 8 September, matching 50% duties.
Canada paired the duties with a C$7.5 billion aid program for small- and medium-sized firms.
The tariffs cover more than 700 products, including steel, aluminium, dairy, appliances and electronics, at 15-50% rates.
Canada exempted fish and other seafood from the duties after industry feedback.

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