Canada to impose new counter-tariffs as government unveils support for affected businesses and workers

The federal government is set to announce new counter-tariffs on selected U.S. goods and additional support measures for Canadian businesses and workers affected by U.S. trade restrictions.

The measures follow a breakdown in trade discussions with the United States and the imposition of a 50 per cent tariff by the U.S. administration on Canadian goods, according to the information provided.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu and AI Minister Evan Solomon are expected to outline the support available to workers and businesses affected by the tariffs.

The Canadian counter-tariffs are expected to target U.S. products for which Canadian alternatives are already readily available. The government says the approach is intended to limit additional inflationary pressure on Canadian consumers while responding to the U.S. measures.

The counter-tariffs are scheduled to take effect Sept. 8. Prime Minister Mark Carney has said further trade negotiations with the United States would depend on a change in the current approach taken by the U.S. administration.