US President Donald Trump has signed an order imposing a 50% tariff on a wide range of Canadian imports, escalating trade tensions between the two neighbouring countries. Trump said the move was retaliation for what he described as "unequal treatment" of American cars, dairy and alcohol, while the White House argued the tariffs were necessary to protect US businesses.

The new duties are due to take effect on 19 August and will apply to goods ranging from consumer items such as wine and hockey sticks to industrial products like commercial cement. However, several major Canadian exports have been exempted, including energy, potash, critical minerals and fish.