The Canadian federal government has adjusted its list of counter-tariffs by removing seafood and fish products and adding copper wire and charcoal to maintain equivalent measures against the U.S. Finance Canada announced the removal of seafood products late Wednesday, citing industry feedback as the reason for the decision.
In response to the recent tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Ottawa revealed its initial actions on Tuesday, which involve increasing duties on American steel and aluminum products from 25 to 50 percent, along with imposing a 25 percent tariff on various seafood items.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Finance confirmed that copper wire, charcoal, as well as other items like plaster sheets, tiles, and printed photographs, will now be subject to a 50 percent tariff when the countermeasures take effect on September 8.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne explained that the decision to remove U.S. seafood from the counter-tariff list was made in Canada’s best interests, after listening to feedback from Canadians. When asked about the potential implications of this move on the White House, Champagne emphasized that the update was deemed appropriate for Canada’s benefit.