Trump says U.S. may impose tariffs on Canada over wildfire smoke

President Donald Trump announced on July 17 that he may seek to add tariffs on Canada because of hazardous air drifting into the United States from hundreds of wildfires in the north. He said the smoke constitutes "filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air" and called it "willful negligence" that costs the United States billions of dollars. Trump said he would contact Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss the issue.

Canada reports more than 900 active wildfires, including about 120 out of control, with several near the U.S. border in Washington, Minnesota, Michigan and Maine. Smoke has lowered air quality in U.S. cities from Minnesota to New York, prompting health concerns.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the province has repeatedly assisted the United States with wildfire response and urged cooperation rather than criticism. The Canadian government indicated that diplomatic engagement is ongoing to address the smoke impact on U.S. states and warned that heavy smoke is expected to continue.

U.S. officials have also responded. Senator Bernie Moreno said he plans to introduce legislation to declare an emergency, sanction the Canadian government and revoke visas over the smoke issue. Four Michigan Republican lawmakers sent a letter to the Canadian prime minister describing the smoke as a recurring crisis and suggesting possible cross-border firefighting cooperation.

"Climate change is the responsibility of everyone, including the United States," Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a press briefing on July 16.

The dispute comes as both countries contend with the public-health effects of the wildfire smoke and explore ways to mitigate future incidents.