The Canadian government has announced changes to its list of counter-tariffs, removing seafood and fish products while adding copper wire and charcoal to maintain equal measures against the U.S. The decision to drop seafood products was made based on industry feedback, according to a statement from Finance Canada. The government stated that it continuously evaluates the effectiveness of these measures, focusing on industries affected by U.S. tariffs.
In response to the recent tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Ottawa has increased duties on American steel and aluminum products from 25 to 50 per cent. Some seafood items had tariffs set at 25 per cent, but they have now been removed from the list.
Additionally, the Ministry of Finance confirmed the inclusion of copper wire, charcoal, plaster sheets, tiles, and printed photographs on the tariff list at a rate of 50 per cent starting on Sept. 8.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne emphasized that the decision to remove U.S. seafood from the counter-tariff list was made in Canada’s best interests after listening to Canadians. When asked about the message this change might convey to the White House, Champagne stated that it was the right decision for Canada.