The mystery at the heart of Trump’s trade war
This story appeared in Today, Explained, a daily newsletter that helps you understand the most compelling news and stories of the day. I spent Labor Day weekend in Montreal, and signs of the trade war were everywhere. On Google Maps, which — at least until we crossed over the border — jarringly displayed the label “Lake […]
On September 6, 2026, trucks began crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge from Canada into the United States. This marked the start of new tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump, retaliating against Canada's response to the 50 percent tariffs he imposed on Canadian goods in late August. These tariffs will make it more difficult for American businesses to sell products in Canada, and will increase the cost of goods for Canadians.
The trade war has damaged the United States' international reputation and made life more expensive for average Americans. Despite some analysts concluding that Trump's animosity towards Canada is personal, there is no apparent strategic reason or support for the full-scale trade war.
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