Consumers could benefit from dropped tariffs on U.S. goods, but unions raise concerns

OTTAWA — Canada’s move to drop many retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods could lead to lower prices for consumers, but union leaders worry it could undermine this country’s bargaining position in ongoing trade talks.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Friday that Canada will drop some retaliatory tariffs on American products to match U.S. tariff exemptions for goods covered under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement.

Carney said at a news conference his decision will take effect on Sept. 1, 2025.

Colin Mang, assistant professor of economics at McMaster University, said the “big winners” from the announcement are consumers and retailers who import American goods, like Loblaws, Metro and Sobeys.

“For consumers, this is definitely going to be a positive because by removing these tarif