The Canadian government has adjusted its retaliatory tariffs by removing seafood and fish products from the list and adding copper wire and charcoal to maintain equivalent countermeasures against the United States. Finance Canada stated that the decision to eliminate seafood products from the list was made based on industry feedback. The government emphasized its ongoing collaboration with Canadian industries to evaluate the effectiveness of these measures, particularly focusing on sectors impacted by U.S. tariffs.
In response to recent tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Ottawa announced an increase in duties on American steel and aluminum products from 25 to 50 percent, along with a 25 percent tariff on various seafood items. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance confirmed the inclusion of copper wire, charcoal, plaster sheets, tiles, and printed photographs on the revised tariff list. These products will face a 50 percent tariff rate when the countermeasures take effect on September 8.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated that the decision to remove U.S. seafood from the counter-tariff list was made in Canada’s best interests after listening to Canadians. When asked about the potential message to the White House, Champagne reiterated that the update was deemed appropriate for Canada’s benefit.