Canada also imposes 25% tariffs on US produce.

The United States has now implemented a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, including fresh produce. In response, the government of Canada has announced the imposition of 25% tariffs on a range of US goods, also effective March 4, 2025, including several items pertinent to the Canadian produce industry. The Canadian federation CPMA continues to closely monitors the evolving situation and implementation of tariffs on fresh produce by both governments. “Recognizing that this is a swiftly evolving situation, we will continue to support our members with information and resources of particular relevance to the fresh produce sector but will not share information readily available through mainstream media” said Ron Lemaire CPMA CEO.

Defending free and fair trade across North America. 

The Canadian produce federation engages actively with the government officials in Canada and the U.S. to seek clarity on the application of tariffs and to ensure that the voices of our members are heard. We will continue to work closely with our colleagues across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico to navigate these challenges and mitigate their impact on the fresh produce sector.

$5 billion of US fresh produce imported

In 2023 alone, Canada imported just over $5 billion in fresh produce from the United States, representing a little less than half of all fresh produce imports. Just as important, Canadian companies exported just over $4 billion in fresh produce to the United States, comprising more than 95% of all fresh produce exports.

Top 5 Commodities Imported from the US (2023)

Lettuce - $476.7 million

Strawberries - $464.7 million

Nuts (“other” category) - $417.9 million

Grapes - $270.7 million

Cauliflower and broccoli - $254.4 million

Top 5 Commodities Exported to the US (2023)

Cucumbers - $718.8 million

Peppers - $706.3 million

Tomatoes - $694.8 million

Potatoes - $593.2 million

Mushrooms - $427 million

US fresh produce items now subject to 25% tariffs in Canada

Since March 4th several US fresh produce items coming into Canada are subject to 25% tariffs: Fresh tomato (all varieties), leguminous vegetables (like beans), shelled or peeled nuts (fresh or dried), citrus fruit, melons and watermelons, papayas and stone fruit (all varieties). Products moving in bond to Canada via the United States (that do not enter the stream of U.S. commerce) would not be subject to tariffs. Product’s country of origin should be identified in accordance with the Determination of Country of Origin for the Purposes of Marking Goods (CUSMA Countries) Regulations. Sources: CPMA, Statistics Canada - For more information, please write here.