Washington— U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 10% increase in tariffs on Canadian imports on Sunday, citing a “fraudulent” advertisement aired during the MLB World Series that featured former President Ronald Reagan.
The controversial advertisement, reportedly funded by the Ontario government, suggested Reagan opposed tariffs. Trump claimed this was a deliberate distortion of history, accusing Canada of “misrepresentation of the facts and a hostile act.”
“Ronald Reagan LOVED Tariffs for purposes of National Security and the Economy, but Canada said he didn’t!” Trump posted on Truth Social while aboard Air Force One. “Their advertisement was to be taken down immediately, but they let it run last night during the World Series, knowing that it was a FRAUD. Because of this, I am increasing the Tariff on Canada by 10% over and above what they are paying now.”
Currently, Canadian steel and aluminum face a 50% tariff, while several other goods are taxed at 35%. Trump did not specify which sectors the new tariffs would affect.
In another post on X, the President accused Canada of trying to “be rescued” by the U.S. Supreme Court over tariff disputes. “Now the United States can defend itself against high and overbearing Canadian Tariffs,” Trump wrote.
Tensions between Washington and Ottawa have escalated in recent weeks. On Saturday, Trump refused to meet with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney before leaving for his Asia tour. When asked by reporters if he planned to meet Carney, Trump said, “No, I don’t have any plan to.”
The $75 million advertisement, which aired on several major U.S. networks, has reportedly drawn backlash from Trump’s administration for its alleged attempt to sway American opinion against tariffs.
Earlier this month, both leaders had discussed trade and border issues during Carney’s visit to Washington on October 7. At the time, Trump described the negotiations as “complicated,” citing both rivalry and interdependence between the two countries.
