Canada has introduced new counter-tariffs on U.S. products effective September 8, 2026, creating potential cost pressures for consumers, businesses and industries across the country.
The new measures come in response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. According to the Government of Canada, the new Canadian tariffs cover approximately $27.6 billion worth of U.S. imports and apply rates of 15%, 25% and 50%, depending on the product.
What Are Canada’s New Tariffs?
The Canada-U.S. tariff dispute has expanded to cover a wide range of products. The latest Canadian measures target U.S.-origin goods affected by U.S. Section 338 and Section 232 tariffs.
The rate applied to a product generally corresponds to the U.S. tariff rate imposed on the comparable Canadian goods.
Importantly, these measures apply specifically to qualifying U.S.-origin products. U.S. goods that were already in transit to Canada when the new tariffs came into effect are exempt from these particular measures.
Which Products Could Become More Expensive?
The revised tariff schedule covers hundreds of customs classifications across multiple industries.
Some of the major categories include:
- Steel and aluminum products – up to 50%
- Clothing and apparel – 50%
- Furniture and lighting – up to 50%
- Cosmetics and personal-care products – 50%
- Plastics and packaging – 50%
- Plywood and certain construction materials – 50%
- Cheese and selected dairy products – 25%
- Refrigerators and other appliances – 25%
- Toilet paper and certain paper products – 25% to 50%
- Smartphones and certain electronics – up to 50%
- Agricultural equipment and machinery – generally 15% to 25%
The official federal list contains the detailed tariff classifications, so the exact rate depends on the specific product and its customs classification.
Will Prices in Canada Rise?
A tariff does not automatically mean that a product’s retail price will increase by the same percentage.
The additional import cost can be absorbed partly by an importer, manufacturer, distributor or retailer. However, businesses facing higher costs may eventually pass some of those expenses on to customers.
This means Canadians could see higher prices in Canada for certain imported goods, particularly products heavily dependent on U.S. supply chains.
For example, businesses involved in construction, manufacturing, retail, food distribution and home renovation may need to reassess their sourcing and operating costs.
What Does This Mean for Canadian Businesses?
The impact will vary from one company to another. Businesses that rely heavily on U.S.-made inputs could experience higher procurement costs or supply-chain challenges.
At the same time, the federal government has announced additional support measures for workers and businesses affected by tariff-related disruptions, including a $7.5 billion package of new and enhanced measures.
The government has also maintained a tariff remission framework that can be used to consider requests for exceptional relief in qualifying circumstances.
What Should Canadians Do?
For consumers, it may be worthwhile to compare products from Canadian and other international suppliers before making major purchases.
For businesses, reviewing suppliers, inventory requirements, pricing strategies and alternative sourcing options may help reduce exposure to sudden cost increases.
For newcomers and families building their lives in Canada, broader economic changes also highlight the importance of having a long-term plan rather than relying on uncertain immigration options.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Build Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we help individuals and families identify appropriate Canadian immigration pathways based on their circumstances and long-term goals.
Instead of relying on the uncertainty of an asylum claim in Canada when another immigration option may be available, applicants should explore legitimate pathways that can provide greater stability and a clearer route toward Permanent Residency in Canada.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other eligible immigration pathways.
- Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for individuals looking to work or study in Canada and potentially build a future toward permanent residence.
- Family Sponsorship: Assistance with eligible family reunification and family sponsorship applications in Canada.
- Professional Immigration Guidance: Help understanding changing Canadian immigration rules, documentation requirements and available pathways.
Whether you are already in Canada or planning your immigration to Canada, choosing the right pathway early can make a significant difference.
Your future in Canada deserves a plan. ICC Immigration can help you understand your options and move forward with greater confidence.