British Columbia’s and Canada’s Response
to U.S. Tariffs

Canada and the United States (U.S.) have close economic ties and together form one of the most enduring global economic relationships. Canada is the largest customer for U.S. goods and services exports, buying more U.S. goods than China, Japan, France and the United Kingdom combined.

The Government of British Columbia (B.C.) and Government of Canada are working closely to address the recently announced tariffs by the U.S. on Canadian products. B.C. is focused on growing a strong economy, finding new trade partners and defending workers and businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs.

British Columbia’s Response

The B.C. Provincial government is committed to working with B.C. businesses to unlock B.C.’ s potential and create the conditions for economic growth that makes British Columbia stronger. B.C.’s three-point approach:

Respond by appealing to American decision-makers and remaining united and ready to participate in nationally coordinated retaliation, if required.
Strengthen our economy through actions like fast-tracking major projects to deliver good-paying jobs across the province.
Diversify by finding new markets for B.C. goods and reducing trade barriers within Canada so we’re less reliant on the U.S.

As a B.C. business, diversifying into international markets offers the potential for business growth. Businesses of all sizes, across all industry sectors, can benefit from going global.

To learn more about B.C.’s response to U.S. tariffs, visit: gov.bc.ca/Tariffs

New U.S. Tariffs – What B.C. Businesses Need to Know

U.S. Section 338 Tariffs

As of August 22, 2026, the U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on select Canadian products under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, including our manufacturing and forestry sectors and many products previously unaffected by U.S. tariffs.

U.S. Section 301 Tariffs

While the U.S. imposed Section 301 tariffs on July 24, 2026, goods that quality for preferential treatment under CUSMA are exempt. There are also product-specific exclusions.
Although Canada has strong measures against forced labour, it was listed among a group of 60 countries covered by these tariffs.
The tariff rate for non-CUSMA compliant goods is 10%.

U.S. Section 232 Tariffs

Section 232 tariffs, that came into effect at various points of time, apply to specified imports including certain lumber, steel, aluminum, copper, autos, trucks, buses, furniture and wood products, and semi-conductors.
Tariff rates vary depending on the product.
There is no CUSMA exemption for products impacted by this tariff.

View the Tariff Fact Sheet to learn more about what B.C. businesses need to know about the recent U.S. Tariffs.

Resources for B.C. Exporters

The Government of British Columbia in conjunction with the federal government offer various programs for B.C. businesses that can help navigate the changing landscape.

Tariff Guidance for BC Businesses: Qualifying businesses can get tariff exemptions or reductions by meeting the rules of origin and completing a certificate of origin under some trade agreements. Learn more here.

Canada’s Response

The Government of Canada has announced a comprehensive response plan including a Notice of Intent to Impose Countermeasures. The Government of Canada has also introduced supports for workers and businesses.

Additional federal supports include:

Inquiries Regarding U.S. Trade & Tariff Impacts

B.C. businesses can submit any questions or concerns related to the U.S. trade tariffs to the Government of British Columbia. Queries will be directed to the appropriate experts for timely and informed responses.

British Columbia’s and Canada’s Response to U.S. Tariffs