The Trump administration is lifting some tariffs on Canadian products ahead of the midterm elections

Starting October 30, the Trump administration will lift the 50% tariffs imposed on certain Canadian products, partially easing the trade conflict with Ottawa less than two weeks before the midterm elections. The measure applies to plywood sheets, certain paper products, machinery, and refrigeration equipment.

The decision was initially announced by Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is running in a close race to retain her seat in Maine. She said she had pressured the administration to secure exemptions intended to support the local economy, particularly the agricultural sector.

Trade tensions escalated in August, when the United States imposed tariffs on approximately $20 billion worth of Canadian goods following the failure of bilateral negotiations. Canada responded with retaliatory measures applied “dollar for dollar.”

The White House maintains that the change does not represent a shift in direction. Washington will remove tariffs on some products but could introduce others, citing the protection of American economic interests and efforts to counter discriminatory treatment of U.S. exports.

Ottawa reacted cautiously. Internal Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc announced that the government was reviewing the measures and remained willing to negotiate. The conflict continues to affect companies and farmers in border states such as Maine and Michigan, while a final agreement between Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney remains distant.