Examining the accuracy of Donald Trump’s statement that Canada is ‘one of the highest tariffing nations’ and what the facts actually reveal.
Donald Trump’s claim about Canadian tariffs sparks debate
Former President Donald Trump has claimed that Canada is one of the highest tariffing nations in the world.
His statement has raised concerns and prompted responses from experts who challenge its accuracy.
Trump’s statement about Canada’s tariffs
Earlier this week, Trump posted on Truth Social, accusing Canada of imposing high tariffs. He stated:
“Based on Ontario, Canada, placing a 25% Tariff on ‘Electricity’ coming into the United States, I have instructed my Secretary of Commerce to add an ADDITIONAL 25% Tariff, to 50%, on all STEEL and ALUMINUM COMING INTO THE UNITED STATES FROM CANADA, ONE OF THE HIGHEST TARIFFING NATIONS ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.”
Trump further threatened to increase tariffs on April 2, warning that it could impact Canada’s automobile manufacturing industry.
He added: “This will go into effect TOMORROW MORNING, March 12th. Also, Canada must immediately drop their Anti-American Farmer Tariff of 250% to 390% on various U.S. dairy products, which has long been considered outrageous. I will shortly be declaring a National Emergency on Electricity within the threatened area. This will allow the U.S to quickly do what has to be done to alleviate this abusive threat from Canada.”
Fact-checking Trump’s tariff claim
Despite Trump’s assertion, data suggests otherwise. Canada is generally considered a low-tariff nation compared to global standards.
According to the World Bank, Canada had a lower average tariff rate than the U.S. in 2022. Among 137 ranked countries, Canada placed 102nd in terms of tariff rates.
Experts respond to Trump’s statement
Scott Lincicome, vice president of general economics and trade at the Cato Institute, dismissed Trump’s claim as ‘nonsense.’
However, Daniel Schwanen, senior vice president at the C.D.
Institute in Canada, acknowledged that certain Canadian tariffs—specifically on dairy and poultry—are relatively high. He noted:
“There is a grain or an element of truth, but it’s still wrong as a general statement.”
Schwanen emphasized that Canada is not broadly a high-tariff nation, particularly in relation to U.S. products. He stated:
“It would be really unfortunate if people got the impression that Canada is in general a high-tariff country, especially vis-à-vis American products. That’s not the case. It is the case with respect to, really, a sliver of trade.”
Trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada
Trump has been engaged in multiple trade disputes with allies, including Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.
His administration imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, triggering retaliatory tariffs from Canada.
These economic tensions have led to uncertainty between the two nations.
Trump has insisted that his tariff policies benefit American citizens and businesses, but experts remain skeptical about their long-term impact.
Trump’s unusual offer to Canada
In an unexpected move, Trump suggested that Canada could avoid further tariff hikes if it became the U.S.’s ‘cherished 51st state.’
While likely meant as a provocative remark, it underscores the ongoing economic and political tensions between the two nations.
Despite Trump’s claim, experts and data indicate that Canada is not one of the highest tariffing nations.
While specific industries—such as dairy and poultry—have high tariffs, Canada maintains a low overall tariff rate.
The ongoing trade disputes continue to shape U.S.-Canada relations, with potential economic consequences for both nations.