Trump Raises Tariffs on Canadian Goods Amid Controversy Over Reagan-Themed Advert

US President Donald Trump has announced a 10% increase in tariffs on goods imported from Canada, following a dispute over a Ronald Reagan-themed advertisement aired by the province of Ontario.

Trump criticised the advert — which used excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address opposing tariffs — calling it a “fraud” and expressing frustration that it was not withdrawn before the World Series baseball championship.

In response, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada remained committed to constructive trade discussions with the US but was also diversifying trade partnerships across ASEAN nations.

The US has already imposed tariffs of up to 35% on Canadian goods, with additional levies of 50% on metals and 25% on automobiles. The new increase, Trump said, will take effect immediately.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford paused the controversial campaign in an attempt to revive stalled trade talks, but the advert continued airing during the Toronto Blue Jays vs Los Angeles Dodgers World Series games.

The Ronald Reagan Foundation criticised Ontario for using “selective” excerpts without permission, though the province maintained that Reagan’s words were not altered.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce urged diplomatic solutions, warning that escalating tariffs would “hurt North American competitiveness as a whole.”

Despite the tension, Ford and California Governor Gavin Newsom shared a lighter exchange online, making friendly bets on the World Series outcome — both calling for a “tariff-free friendship” between Ontario and California.