Trump Declares 35% Tariff on All Canadian Imports Starting August 1—Blames Fentanyl Trafficking

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of a 35% tariff on all imports from Canada, effective August 1. In a strongly worded statement, Trump cited Canada’s alleged failure to curb fentanyl trafficking as the primary reason behind this decision.

In a letter addressed to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, which Trump also posted on his social media platform, he warned that any retaliatory actions by Canada could lead to even higher tariffs.

However, Trump left the door open for negotiation. “If Canada takes real steps to stop the trafficking of fentanyl into the United States, we may reconsider the terms of this letter,” he wrote, adding that tariff levels could fluctuate based on bilateral relations.

This move comes despite evidence suggesting that most fentanyl entering the U.S. comes through the southern border with Mexico, not via the northern border with Canada.

Trump’s recent actions appear to be part of a broader escalation of trade conflicts, with Japan, South Korea, and copper imports also facing new or increased duties. The president hinted in a recent NBC News interview that more countries might soon face 15% to 20% tariffs as part of his trade strategy.

Previously, the U.S. had imposed 25% tariffs on selected Canadian goods, which were later relaxed under the USMCA agreement (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement) in 2020. It remains unclear whether those exemptions will still apply after the new tariffs take effect. As of now, Prime Minister Mark Carney has not issued a public response to the announcement.