US lifts 50% tariffs on some Canadian goods but adds others to the list

US-Canada trade talks collapsed this summer. According to the White House, Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on about $20 billion of US exports. Trump answered with five proclamations under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930. Tariffs on Canadian goods were announced on 20 July and changed on 8 September.

The new proclamation from 23 October changes the list again. Plywood sheets, some paper products, certain machinery and refrigeration equipment, packing crates and boxes come off. Certain valves, carpets, waste products and other goods are added instead. The changes start on 30 October.

These tariffs apply to Canadian goods even if they qualify under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). They also come on top of Section 232 tariffs, which the US imposes on national security grounds.

Maine Senator Susan Collins announced the exemptions first. She said they help the state's blueberry, potato, apple and seaweed growers, who rely on Canadian equipment and packaging. The Wall Street Journal, as reported by the BBC, linked the exemptions to the 3 November congressional elections.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is open to a deal but is willing to wait months if needed, the BBC reports, citing CBC. Canada had not officially commented on the new proclamation at the time of publication.

Fatos confirmados

• On 23 October Trump signed a proclamation under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 that changes the list of Canadian goods under tariffs.^[1]
• Plywood sheets, some paper products, certain machinery and refrigeration equipment, packing crates and boxes come off the list.^[1][2]
• Certain valves, carpets, waste products and other goods are added instead.^[1][2]
• The changes take effect on 30 October 2026.^[1][2]
• The move covers part of the 50% tariffs on Canadian goods.^[2]
• Section 338 tariffs apply regardless of USMCA origin and come on top of Section 232 tariffs.^[1]
• According to the White House, Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on about $20 billion of US exports.^[1]
• Senator Susan Collins announced the exemptions first and described them as help for Maine farmers.^[2]
• US congressional elections take place on 3 November.^[2]

Implicações

• ConfirmadoUS buyers of Canadian plywood, paper and packaging will pay less in tariffs from 30 October.
• ConfirmadoImporters of Canadian valves, carpets and waste products will start paying the tariff.
• Nossa leituraThe overall level of the trade war barely changes, so for markets this is more a signal than a turning point.

Ainda não se sabe

• The exact product list with tariff codes and how much trade the changes cover.
• How Canada will respond and whether talks will restart.

Quem é afetado

United States, Canada. Those who trade the Canadian dollar, commodities or shares of companies doing business across the US-Canada border

Fontes

1. The White House: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Further Modifies Canadian Products Subject to Tariffs Under Section 338 23 de outubro de 2026 · oficial
2. BBC News: White House says the US is lifting tariffs on some Canadian goods 23 de outubro de 2026 · mídia