Trump may lift 50% tariffs on some Canadian goods, report says

US President Donald Trump is expected to lift 50% tariffs on some Canadian agricultural and forestry products, a move aimed at helping Republican Senator Susan Collins win re-election in November’s midterm elections, Anadolu Agency reported, citing “The Wall Street Journal”.

The changes could be announced as early as Friday, the report said, citing people familiar with the planned action. The scope and timing remain subject to change.

Collins, a moderate Republican facing a competitive race, has sought relief from tariffs affecting industries and consumers in Maine. The state has extensive economic ties with Canada, making cross-border trade a significant issue in the Senate contest.

Collins’ Democratic challenger, Troy Jackson, has made Trump’s trade policies toward Canada a central theme of his campaign. The candidates are neck and neck in polls ahead of Election Day.

A White House official cautioned against viewing preliminary reports as confirmation of an impending policy change. “Any tariff announcements would come directly from the administration and any preliminary reporting is speculation,” the official said, according to “The Wall Street Journal”.