Donald Trump has announced an additional 10% tariff on goods imported from Canada, escalating trade tensions between the two countries after Ontario aired an anti-tariff advertisement featuring former U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Calling the ad a “fraud,” Trump criticized Canadian officials for allowing it to air ahead of the World Series, demanding its immediate removal.
In response, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada remained committed to continuing trade discussions with the United States but was also working to diversify its economic partnerships with other countries. He emphasized that Canada’s focus remained on securing the best outcomes for Canadian workers and families while advancing trade ties with ASEAN member nations.
The U.S. had previously imposed a 35% levy on Canadian imports, with exemptions under existing free trade arrangements. In addition, Washington introduced sector-specific duties, including a 50% tariff on metals and 25% on automobiles. Trump, speaking en route to Asia, said he was “increasing the tariff on Canada by 10% over and above what they are paying now,” reiterating that tariffs are paid by importers, not exporters.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, whose province produces most of Canada’s automobiles, announced a pause on the anti-tariff advertising campaign to facilitate renewed trade talks. However, the ad continued airing during World Series games between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Reagan Foundation criticized the ad for using selective excerpts from a 1987 speech without permission, arguing it misrepresented Reagan’s views on trade.
Trump’s tariff announcement comes amid strained trade negotiations—Canada remains the only G7 nation without a finalized agreement under Trump’s new trade policies. Meanwhile, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce urged both governments to de-escalate the dispute, warning that continued tariff hikes would harm American consumers first and weaken North American competitiveness.
Despite the tension, Ford and California Governor Gavin Newsom attempted to lighten the atmosphere by exchanging friendly bets over the World Series outcome, joking about tariffs and trade in a viral social media video. Both leaders ended their exchange by expressing hope for “a tariff-free friendship” between Ontario and California, even as the broader U.S.–Canada trade relationship faces renewed uncertainty.
