Carney’s tariff counterattack on Trump has arrived. Here’s what it means for Quebec

The Canadians are striking back. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government will impose tariffs on billions of dollars’ worth of U.S. imports Tuesday, as the trade war persists.

It follows the collapse of trade talks and U.S. President Donald Trump hitting Canadian goods with new 50 per cent levies last month.

Canada’s counter-tariffs range from 15 to 50 per cent and cover products from plastic packaging and toilet paper to smartphones, cosmetics and furniture.

Here’s what to know about the new tariffs and their impact on Quebec.

Many plastics and plastic products, including resins, film, bags, bottles and packaging, will face a 50 per cent tariff.

This rate will also apply to iron and steel products, smartphones and networking equipment, cosmetics and toiletries, wood pulp, clothing, plywood, lighting fixtures, sporting goods and video game consoles.

Tariffs ranging from 25 to 50 per cent will apply to paper products, including tissue, toilet paper and cartons, as well as hardware, hand tools, cutlery, furniture, dairy products, aluminum and household metal goods.

Carpets will face a 25 per cent tariff, while levies on certain refrigerators, washing machines, stoves and other appliances will range from 15 to 25 per cent.

A Gazette analysis of provincial trade data identified about $3 billion worth of U.S. goods across the affected categories for the 12 months ending in June. Provincial trade data use broader categories than the federal tariff list, meaning some products counted in the total won’t be subject to the new duties.

Plastics represent the largest category, at about $800 million, followed by paper and paperboard, at $739 million.

Quebec also imported approximately $300 million worth of hardware, tools and metal fasteners; $230 million worth of iron and steel products; $170 million worth of smartphones and telecommunications equipment; and $150 million worth of cosmetics and toiletries.

Other affected categories for Quebec include wood pulp, furniture, clothing and plywood.

Fish and seafood products appeared on an earlier proposed list, but were removed from the final list of counter-tariffs.

Fishing equipment, including certain rods and other sporting goods, remains on the list.

Canada’s existing counter-tariffs on U.S. cars, trucks and auto parts will remain in place. They aren’t part of the new measures.

In theory, there is potential. Canadian importers pay the duties when affected U.S. products enter the country.

In practice, the effects will depend on how much of each product comes from the U.S., whether alternatives are available and how much of the cost retailers pass on.

Will you be affected by the tariffs? Write to me: hnorth@postmedia.com