Canada rejects latest U.S. tariff offer with Aug. 19 50% duties one week out

Wednesday, August 12, 2026Developing

Business Desk

Vehicles at a U.S. border port of entry — Photo: Kris Grogan / U.S. Customs and Border Protection (public domain)

Sources on both sides said Washington floated a new Tuesday proposal that would lower some steel, aluminum, lumber, and auto-related tariffs—but not to the levels Ottawa wants. Canada–U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and chief negotiator Janice Charette remained in Washington for daily talks with USTR Jamieson Greer; LeBlanc said discussions were “ongoing.” Ottawa also sought to avoid the new 50% levy while pressing for relief on existing sectoral tariffs and eventual CUSMA renewal.

What's confirmed

same sourcing—U.S. offered to lower some tariffs but not enough for Canada; Trump Aug. 19 50% threat intact.
LeBlanc/Charette still engaging in Washington; daily meetings planned through the deadline.

What's still developing

Whether a package can be presented to Trump before Aug. 19.
Provincial alcohol-shelf and other U.S. irritant concessions vs. sectoral relief numbers.

Sources

Reuters — CBC-sourced report on unhappy Canadian officials and tariff talks link