Trump administration reduces tariffs on Canadian goods before midterm elections

The Trump administration removed some tariffs on Canadian goods on October 30, 2025, just days before the November 3 midterm elections. The exemptions covered products like plywood, certain paper goods, and refrigeration equipment. At the same time, new tariffs were placed on carpets and some other items.

Republican Senator Susan Collins from Maine said she had pushed for the exemptions. She argued they would help farmers in her state who grow blueberries, potatoes, and apples. Collins is facing a difficult reelection race in Maine, a state that borders Canada.

The US and Canada have been in a trade dispute since talks broke down in summer 2025. Canada sends about 70 percent of its exports to the United States.