Trump Threatens 35% Tariff on Canadian Goods Starting August

Above: Mark Carney and Donald Trump during the G7 Leaders' Summit on June 16, 2025, in Kananaskis, Alberta. Image copyright: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

These tariffs are necessary to protect American workers and address Canada's unfair trade practices. Canada has failed to stop the fentanyl crisis that's killing Americans and instead retaliated with tariffs rather than working cooperatively. Trump's action is justified as the trade deficit with Canada poses a threat to the American economy and national security.

Anti-Trump narrative

The tariff threats are based on false premises since data clearly shows that minimal fentanyl comes from Canada compared to Mexico. Canada has already invested $1.3 billion in border security and appointed a fentanyl czar, demonstrating a genuine commitment to addressing U.S. concerns through cooperation rather than confrontation. Trump's threat is baseless.

Metaculus Prediction

There's a 7% chance that the U.S. Congress will pass a bill implementing Trump's tariff policies in 2025, according to the Metaculus prediction community.



The Controversies



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