Canadians Split on How to React to Imminent 50% U.S. Tariffs
A poll shows Canadians divided over whether to impose counter-tariffs or keep negotiating as U.S. 50% duties loom.
Ahead of the scheduled 50% tariffs on hundreds of Canadian exports, an Abacus Data poll revealed a split public opinion on Ottawa's response. About a third of those surveyed support imposing counter-tariffs even if it raises costs, whereas roughly a quarter favor persisting with negotiations. Regional differences are stark, with only a small share of Quebecers open to concessions compared with a larger share in Alberta, and party lines show Conservatives more willing to retaliate than Liberals or NDP supporters.
A large majority have followed the dispute and expect the tariffs to hurt their local economies, while opinions diverge on abandoning the CUSMA agreement in favor of new trade deals. Experts argue over the timing and wisdom of retaliation, and senior government sources say talks remain far from a resolution, prompting a focus on an interim arrangement to avoid the August 19 deadline.
Why it matters
The outcome will shape Canada's trade strategy and economic outlook amid rising U.S. protectionism.
How this story developed
- Jul 23 White House signals upcoming tariff announcement as Trump readies new trade measures
- Aug 6 Administration refunded roughly $100 billion of previously collected tariffs and imposed new 10‑12.5% duties on imports from about 60‑80 countries.
- Aug 13 The White House issued an assessment on August 13 that flagged over 40 foreign partners as high‑risk for facilitating tariff evasion.
- Aug 13 U.S. Court of International Trade unanimously upheld the administration's authority to eliminate the $800 de minimis exemption.
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