JD Vance Slams Canada Over China Trade Ties
US Vice President JD Vance has accused Canada of treating Chinese goods more favourably than American products, calling the situation “insanity” as trade tensions between Washington and Ottawa deepen following the collapse of negotiations.
JD Vance Targets Canada Over China Trade
Speaking in Brewer, Maine, Vance claimed Canada was allowing Chinese goods to use the country as a “back door” into the North American market while maintaining trade barriers affecting US producers.
He argued that Washington expected greater fairness from Canada because of the two countries’ long-standing economic and security relationship. Vance said the Trump administration was prepared to challenge what it considers unfair trade practices regardless of whether they originate from China or Canada.
Vance Highlights Canadian Dairy Tariffs
Vance specifically raised Canada’s dairy supply-management system, saying American farmers can face tariffs approaching 250% on certain products.
Under Canada’s tariff-rate quota system, specified quantities of US dairy products can enter duty-free or at preferential rates under existing trade arrangements. However, substantially higher tariffs can apply once those quotas are exceeded, with some dairy categories carrying rates above 200%.
Vance argued that the system disadvantages farmers in border states such as Maine.
US-Canada Trade Talks Remain Stalled
Vance said he believed the two countries had been close to reaching an agreement before negotiations broke down, blaming Canada for introducing what he described as unreasonable last-minute demands.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has disputed Washington’s account, saying the US proposal was unfair and would disadvantage Canadian industries.
President Donald Trump has meanwhile threatened 50% tariffs on Canadian-made vehicles, auto parts and steel from January 2027, while Canada is preparing retaliatory measures.
