Trump Threatens 35% Duty on Canadian Imports as Negotiations Continue

What’s Happening?

US President Donald Trump announced in a open letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney that he plans to charge a 35% duty on Canadian imports — effective Aug. 1.

“If for any reason you decide to raise your tariffs, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 35% that we charge,” the letter, posted by Trump on Truth Social, reads.

The bombshell update comes after the president claimed that he would kick off August with a 50% levy on all copper imports to the US.

Carney’s Response

The prime minister posted on X (formerly Twitter) that his administration is aiming to reach a new Canada-US trade deal by Aug. 1, instead of July 21 as previously stated.

“We are building Canada strong. The federal government, provinces, and territories are making significant progress in building one Canadian economy,” Carney’s post reads.

“We are poised to build a series of major new projects in the national interest. We are strengthening our trading partnerships throughout the world.”

Throughout the current trade negotiations with the United States, the Canadian government has steadfastly defended our workers and businesses. We will continue to do so as we work towards the revised deadline of August 1.

Canada has made vital progress to stop the scourge…

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) July 11, 2025

SEE ALSO
• Canada Axes Digital Services Tax, US Trade Talks Resume
• Canadian Steelmakers Warning of Steeper Job Cuts During US Trade War
• Ottawa Unveils Suite of Business Relief Measures to Address Sweeping US Duties

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