Fact Check: What is the amount of tariffs charged by Canada to the USA?

The Claim: "What is the amount of tariffs charged by Canada to the USA?"

Introduction

The claim regarding the tariffs charged by Canada on imports from the United States is multifaceted and has been influenced by recent trade policies and agreements. This article aims to explore the current tariff landscape between Canada and the USA, particularly in light of the ongoing trade dynamics and recent adjustments made by both countries.

What We Know

1. Tariff Structure: Canada has a structured tariff system that applies to various goods imported from the United States. According to the Canadian Customs Tariff 2023, Canada maintains different tariff rates based on the type of goods and their origin, with many goods crossing the border duty-free under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) 34.

2. Recent Tariff Adjustments: Following the imposition of tariffs by the United States under President Donald Trump's administration, Canada retaliated with its own tariffs. For instance, as of March 4, 2025, Canada imposed a 25% tariff on approximately $30 billion worth of goods imported from the U.S. 510. This was part of a broader response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian products.

3. Average Tariff Rates: Historical data indicates that Canada's average tariff rates have fluctuated over the years. For example, in 2021, the average tariff rate was reported at 2.35% 6. However, the specific rates applicable to U.S. imports can vary significantly based on product categories.

4. Exemptions and Special Cases: Under the USMCA, many goods are exempt from tariffs, but there are notable exceptions, particularly in the agricultural sector, where Canada maintains higher tariffs on dairy, poultry, and eggs 4.

Analysis

The sources available present a mixed picture of the current tariff situation between Canada and the USA.

• Government Sources: The Canadian Customs Tariff 3 and the official government announcement regarding the 25% tariffs 5 are credible as they come directly from government entities responsible for trade and customs. These sources are reliable but may be subject to political influence, especially during periods of heightened trade tensions.

• Fact-Checking Sources: The fact-checking article from AFP 4 provides context about the misinformation circulating regarding Canadian tariffs. This source is valuable for understanding public perceptions and the impact of social media on the narrative surrounding tariffs. However, it is essential to note that fact-checking organizations can sometimes have biases based on their editorial stance.

• Economic Data: The data from Macrotrends 6 and the World Bank 7 provide historical context and statistical analysis of tariff rates. These sources are generally reliable, as they aggregate data from multiple international trade organizations. However, the interpretation of this data can vary, and it is crucial to consider the methodology behind the collection and presentation of such statistics.

• Potential Conflicts of Interest: The fact sheets from the White House 12 are inherently biased, as they represent the administration's perspective and policy decisions. While they provide official information, the context and implications of these tariffs should be critically evaluated, especially given the political motivations behind trade policy.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim regarding the tariffs charged by Canada to the USA is partially true. Evidence indicates that Canada does impose tariffs on certain goods imported from the United States, including a notable 25% tariff on approximately $30 billion worth of goods as of March 2025. However, many goods are also exempt from tariffs under the USMCA, and average tariff rates can vary significantly based on product categories.

The complexity of the tariff structure and the existence of exemptions highlight the nuanced nature of this claim. While some tariffs are indeed applied, the overall landscape is influenced by trade agreements that allow for duty-free imports on many items.

It is important to acknowledge the limitations in the available evidence, as the interpretation of tariff data can vary, and political motivations may influence the presentation of information. Additionally, the dynamic nature of trade policies means that the situation can change rapidly.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding tariffs and trade policies, considering the context and potential biases of the sources they consult.

Sources

1. Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Imposes Tariffs on ... White House
2. Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Adjusts Tariffs on ... White House
3. Customs Tariff 2023 - cbsa-asfc.gc.ca Canada Border Services Agency
4. Inaccurate list of Canadian tariffs circulates amid US trade war AFP Fact Check
5. List of products from the United States subject to 25 per ... Government of Canada
6. Canada Tariff Rates 1989-2025 - Macrotrends Macrotrends
7. Canada tariffs on United States | WITS data - World Bank World Bank
8. Canadian tariffs of 25% on goods from the United States Canada Border Services Agency
9. Canada Trade Summary 2023 | WITS | Text World Bank
10. Canada Tariffs on US Goods: 2024 and 2025 Compared Newsweek