Ottawa to hike tariffs on U.S., steel, aluminum to 50% in retaliation

“Canada must respond and today we are — in a proportionate, targeted and strategic way,” he said.

Champagne was among a number of federal cabinet ministers who presented the government’s response at a news conference at an Ottawa roofing manufacturer on Tuesday.

Government officials at a technical briefing for reporters stressed Canada was not targeting any new products beyond ones the U.S. has already hit.

Ottawa is matching the dollar amount of the U.S. tariffs, but the list does not include all of the same items targeted by President Donald Trump — like hockey sticks and Canadian alcohol.

Officials said Canada selected products from the Canadian industries most impacted by the U.S. tariffs, to protect their market share.

“Economic sovereignty means the capacity to produce, invest and grow in Canada,” Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said.

She said the government has already spoken with Canadian retailers about ensuring Canadian products on their shelves are clearly identified and said Canadians should buy domestic products.

“Building at home is not a Plan B, it is a Plan A,” she said.

The government also announced a $7.5-billion aid package for Canadian businesses impacted by the trade war with the United States.

Among the measures are new loan programs for businesses and more flexibility to apply for employment insurance.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 25, 2026.

Nick Murray, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Ottawa to hike tariffs on U.S., steel, aluminum to 50% in retaliation

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