President Donald Trump has announced a 35 percent tariff on goods coming into the United States from Canada, starting August 1.
The move marks a major shift in US-Canada trade relations and could lead to further economic tension between the two countries.
Trump warned that the rate may increase if Canada responds with its own tariffs.
This decision is part of a broader trade push by Trump. Since the beginning of the week, he has issued over 20 letters to world leaders about new tariffs.
Thursday’s message to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney adds to the growing list.
Despite recent signs of improved ties—Carney met Trump at the White House in May and again at last month’s G7 summit in Canada—this new action signals a shift in tone.
Trump is also considering applying blanket tariffs of 15 to 20 percent on other trading partners. He told a US media outlet that countries not yet targeted would soon face similar measures.
New tariffs have already been placed on allies such as Japan and South Korea, as well as a 50 percent duty on copper.
Other countries affected are reacting quickly. Myanmar, hit with a 40 percent tariff, has offered to send a team to Washington to talk.
The Philippines is also preparing for talks, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. scheduled to visit the US later this month to discuss both the tariffs and defense issues.