Top Stories· August 17, 2026 at 04:08 p.m.
Canadian Public Divided on Response to U.S. Tariffs, Poll Shows
Key takeaways
- Canadians are divided on how to respond to U.S. tariffs
- 91% of Canadians aware of ongoing tariff negotiations
- 55% of Canadians believe Canada should explore trade relationships with other countries
A new poll by Abacus Data reveals that Canadians are divided on how the government should respond to looming 50% tariffs on hundreds of exports to the United States. The tariffs were triggered by an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump last month under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930.
According to the poll, 36% of respondents favor counter-tariffs, even if they risk escalation and price increases, compared to 30% who prefer continued negotiations. Only 18% support concessions such as easing dairy restrictions or ending alcohol bans.
The poll also found that Canadians are closely following the tariff dispute, with 91% reporting some awareness of the issue. Meanwhile, 55% believe Canada should explore trade relationships with other countries, compared to 34% who want to preserve CUSMA.
Regional and political differences were noted in the poll results, with Quebecers and Liberal supporters less likely to favor concessions than their counterparts in Alberta and Conservative supporters.
