World
US Midterms: Trump Eases Some Canada Tariffs As Trade War Puts Key GOP Senate Seat At Stake
By: News18 World
Published: 23 October 2026
Photo / Illustration: Haldwani Times News Desk
<p>US President Donald Trump has lifted 50% tariffs on some Canadian imports, two weeks before the midterm elections, following pressure from Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is facing a tough re-election contest in Maine.</p>
<p>The White House said on Friday that the exemptions cover products including plywood sheets, paper goods, certain machinery, refrigeration equipment and packing materials.</p>
<p>The move could ease costs for American businesses and farmers that depend on Canadian supplies, particularly in Maine, a state where Democrats are hoping to win Collins’ Senate seat as they seek control of Congress in the November 3 elections.</p>
<p>Collins said she had “secured" the exemptions for products vital to the state’s agricultural industries, including blueberry, potato, apple and seaweed producers.</p>
<p>President Donald Trump lifted 50% tariffs on several Canadian imports, including plywood sheets, paper goods, certain machinery, refrigeration equipment, and packing materials, following pressure from Republican Senator Susan Collins.</p>
<p>The exemptions were granted to ease costs for American businesses and farmers depending on Canadian supplies, particularly aiding vulnerable Republican Senator Susan Collins in her tough reelection race in Maine.</p>
<p>Senator Susan Collins stated that the exemptions secured vital relief for Maine's blueberry, potato, apple, and seaweed producers, as well as the state's coastal and rural economy.</p>
