Canada tariffs resume after unsuccessful negotiations 

The 50-percent tariffs on Canadian imports are back on after a pause to negotiate last week. 

In July, President Trump imposed three new 50-percent tariffs on a range of Canadian products in response to what he views as discriminatory actions against U.S. products, mostly dairy, alcohol, and cars. 

They were set to go into effect August 19, but Trump paused them in order to negotiate with Canadian leaders. The talks broke down, and Trump reimposed them August 22, with 50-percent tariffs on automobiles and parts becoming effective in January. 

Products that are currently covered by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) are not exempt from the new tariffs. 

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said his government plans to respond with tariffs on U.S. products, starting as soon as September 8. 

The International Fresh Produce Association BB #:378962 issued the following statement August 24 following the implementation of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports:  

 “The implementation of new tariffs on Canadian goods adds to the uncertainty facing the agriculture industry operating across the highly integrated North American market. Last year, Canada accounted for 48 percent of U.S. fresh produce exports, over $3.5 billion in produce sales. In total, the United States and Canada share nearly $6.5 billion in annual fresh produce trade. Canada is also a major supplier of cut florals and floral inputs, as well as an important source of critical inputs that U.S. fruit and vegetable growers rely on. A stable, predictable trade relationship with Canada is essential to the growers, businesses, and consumers who depend on a strong North American fresh produce supply chain.  

 “IFPA encourages both governments to continue working toward a negotiated resolution that reduces trade barriers and provides the certainty growers need to plan, invest, and keep fresh produce available and affordable for consumers on both sides of the border.”