Washington, D.C.: In a surprise move that has rattled U.S.–Canada trade relations, President Donald Trump announced an additional 10% tariff on Canadian imports Sunday night, citing what he called a “fraudulent and hostile” political advertisement aired during the MLB World Series.
The commercial in question, reportedly funded by the Ontario government, featured a clip of former U.S. President Ronald Reagan that, according to Trump, falsely portrayed Reagan as being opposed to tariffs. The ad, which ran on several major American networks, allegedly cost around $75 million.
“Ronald Reagan LOVED Tariffs for purposes of National Security and the Economy, but Canada said he didn’t!” Trump posted on Truth Social from Air Force One. “Their ad was FRAUD. Because of their serious misrepresentation and hostile act, I am increasing the Tariff on Canada by 10% over and above what they are paying now.”
Tariff Impact Still Unclear
Trump did not specify which sectors will be affected by the new duty, but several Canadian exports — including steel, aluminum, and certain agricultural goods — already face stiff tariffs ranging from 35% to 50%. The additional 10% could further strain key industries that rely heavily on cross-border trade.
Canadian officials have yet to issue an official response, though sources in Ottawa have described the move as “politically motivated” and “deeply concerning” for North American economic stability.
Ad Controversy and Diplomatic Fallout
The advertisement that sparked Trump’s reaction features vintage footage of Reagan and a voiceover suggesting that the late president opposed protectionist trade measures. Trump, who has repeatedly invoked Reagan in his speeches, called the portrayal “a total lie.”
He also accused Canada of trying to sway U.S. public opinion ahead of an anticipated Supreme Court review of trade tariffs, writing on X (formerly Twitter): “The sole purpose of this FRAUD was Canada’s hope that the Supreme Court will come to their rescue on tariffs. Now the U.S. can defend itself against high and overbearing Canadian tariffs!”
The dispute marks another low point in U.S.–Canada relations, just weeks after Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Washington, where both leaders discussed trade and border issues. On Saturday, Trump pointedly refused to meet with Carney before leaving for an Asia tour, telling reporters, “No, I don’t have any plan to.”
A Familiar Trade Rift
Trade tensions between the two nations have flared repeatedly during Trump’s presidency, with disputes over dairy, lumber, and energy exports frequently spilling into the public arena. Despite the countries’ close economic ties — Canada remains the United States’ second-largest trading partner — Trump has often accused Ottawa of taking advantage of U.S. trade policy.
In earlier remarks from the Oval Office this month, Trump acknowledged that the bilateral trade relationship is “complicated,” describing it as a mix of “natural conflict and mutual love.”
What Comes Next
Economists warn the new tariff hike could trigger retaliatory measures from Ottawa, potentially escalating into a broader trade dispute. With both nations already navigating delicate negotiations on a revised trade framework, the latest move threatens to derail progress.
As of Sunday night, the Reagan ad remained on air, continuing to circulate across U.S. sports broadcasts — despite the President’s demand for its immediate removal.
