Trump Exempts Canadian Imports from Tariffs to Aid Collins
Source reports published 24 Oct 2026, 8:48 am – 25 Oct 2026, 1:09 am AEST
President Trump is exempting certain Canadian imports, including plywood and machinery, from 50% tariffs. This action aims to alleviate economic burdens on Maine businesses and families, supporting Senator Susan Collins' reelection campaign.
What happened
- President Donald Trump is exempting some Canadian imports — plywood sheets, packing crates and some machinery — from the 50% tariffs he initially imposed on $20 billion worth of Canadian products.
- The changes will take effect Oct. 30.
- The White House stated the president was seeking to offset ‘the burden to U.S. commerce while better serving the public interest.’
- Senator Susan Collins, facing a tight race against Troy Jackson, reported speaking with Jamieson Greer and Howard Lutnick about the tariffs’ impact on Maine.
- Collins stated she requested tariff relief for products unavailable from American suppliers or too costly to replace.
- She emphasized the added costs impacting Maine businesses and families.
- Collins proposed seeking ‘additional relief from tariffs and encourage a broader trade agreement with Canada.’
- Trump initiated a trade war with Canada, citing discrimination against U.S. producers.
- Canada responded with matching tariffs.
- Trump also imposed a ban on $1 billion in Canadian imports.
- An Associated Press-NORC poll found 65% of Americans blame Trump’s policies for high prices.
- Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden stated Trump’s action was an admission of voter rejection of his tariff policies.
Original reporting
- PBS NewsHour: Seeking to help Collins in Maine, Trump exempts some Canadian imports from his 50% tariffs
2026-10-23T22:48:08+00:00 - Washington Examiner: Trump seeks to boost Susan Collins with Canadian tariff rollback
2026-10-24T15:09:14+00:00