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Trump Lifts Tariffs on Key Imports to Ease Consumer Costs

                           US President Donald Trump drops tariffs on coffee, fruit, beef as consumers face high prices. In a move aimed at addressing rising consumer prices, President Donald Trump announced the removal of tariffs on beef, coffee, and tropical fruits. The decision comes after weeks of mounting concerns from households and businesses over the cost of everyday essentials. The administration stated that lifting these tariffs will help stabilize food markets and provide relief to consumers ahead of the holiday season. Economists note that the policy shift could lower grocery bills and improve trade relations with countries that supply these goods. While supporters welcome the measure as a step toward easing inflationary pressures, critics argue that the broader trade strategy remains uncertain. For now, shoppers may see more affordable beef, coffee, and fruit on store shelves—a tangible chang...

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Ottawa to Remove Federal Exceptions from Canadian Free Trade Agreement

 

In a significant move to bolster interprovincial trade, the Canadian government has announced the removal of more than half of its federal exceptions from the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). This decision, spearheaded by Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand, aims to reduce internal trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation across provinces.

The CFTA, established in 2017, was designed to modernize the Agreement on Internal Trade and facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and labor within Canada. However, numerous exceptions have hindered its effectiveness. The federal government initially had 56 exceptions, but with the recent removal of 20 more, the total now stands at 19.

The majority of the removed exceptions pertain to government procurement, providing Canadian businesses with greater opportunities to compete nationwide. This action is expected to lower prices, boost productivity, and add up to $200 billion to the domestic economy.

Minister Anand emphasized the importance of mutual recognition of rules across provinces to streamline labor mobility and reduce regulatory burdens. The federal government is encouraging provinces and territories to follow suit and eliminate their own trade barriers.

This announcement comes at a critical time, as Canada faces potential trade disruptions from the United States. By strengthening internal trade, Canada aims to become less reliant on its southern neighbor and build a more resilient domestic economy.

The Committee on Internal Trade will review the federal changes and continue working with provinces to improve internal trade. More announcements are expected in the coming weeks as Canada strives to create a more open and efficient domestic market.



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