Canada and Mexico have announced that they will be seeking more than a combined $3 billion in retaliatory tariffs against U.S. products as a result of the U.S. country-of-original labeling practices on fresh beef and pork products. The proposed tariffs are the next step in the battle between the United States and its neighbors in the World Trade Organization. The recent rejection of the last U.S. appeal meant that Canada and Mexico could place tariffs on U.S. products if they could prove that the COOL rule has harmed their exports.
Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, and Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, today announced that Canada will seek WTO authorization to impose over $3 billion in retaliatory measures against U.S. exports to Canada. According to CBC News, the country is seeking up to 100% tariffs on a variety of U.S. products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, pasta, chocolates, baked goods, prepared food, jewelry, liquor, wine and furniture.