President Donald Trump has announced a steep new tariff on Canada, just a day after temporarily pausing a 25% tariff on most Canadian imports.
The new policy imposes a 250% tariff on Canadian dairy products, a move Trump says could take effect as soon as today or by early next week. Speaking from the Oval Office on Friday, the president justified the decision as a response to what he claims are long-standing unfair trade practices by Canada.
“Canada has been ripping us off for years on lumber and dairy products,” Trump stated, pointing to Canada’s existing 250% tariff on American dairy imports as the reason for his latest action. “We’re going to charge the same thing. It’s not fair. It never has been fair, and they’ve treated our farmers badly.”
The announcement has sparked concern among American consumers and businesses, particularly as food prices remain high due to inflation. A tariff of this magnitude could significantly increase the cost of dairy products in the U.S., making essentials like milk, cheese, and butter even more expensive for everyday Americans.
For older adults on fixed incomes, rising grocery prices are already a challenge, and many worry that additional tariffs will only make household budgets tighter. Economists warn that while tariffs are meant to protect American industries, they often result in higher prices for consumers, as businesses pass those costs along.
The decision is also expected to escalate tensions between the U.S. and Canada, a key trading partner. Canadian officials have not yet responded, but trade experts predict retaliatory measures that could further impact American farmers and businesses reliant on cross-border commerce.
With tariffs playing a central role in Trump’s economic strategy, the move signals a hardline stance on trade that may continue in the months ahead—potentially leading to even higher prices on essential goods for American households.