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5 Things to Know Today: Inflation Data, a Tariff Countdown, and a Big Energy Deal

  August 17, 2026 Inflation data lands this morning, the clock on the U.S. tariff deadline is down to two days, and a long-running provincial energy dispute is about to be settled. Here's what's moving your money today. 1. Today's Inflation Report Could Set the Tone for September Statistics Canada releases July's Consumer Price Index this morning. Economists are expecting the annual rate to tick up to roughly 2.9%, from 2.8% in June, mainly because gasoline prices swung higher again in July after the Middle East conflict pushed oil prices back up. Core inflation measures, which the Bank of Canada watches most closely, aren't expected to move much. What it means for you: A hotter-than-expected print would make it less likely the Bank of Canada cuts rates at its September 2 meeting, which matters if you're renewing a variable-rate mortgage or carrying a line of credit. A softer number keeps a cut on the table. 2. The Tariff Deadline Is Two Days Away, and Talks Are...

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Trump Proposes 25% Tariffs on Autos, Pharmaceuticals, and Semiconductor Chips

 

In a move that could significantly impact international trade, former President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on automobile, pharmaceutical, and semiconductor chip imports. The announcement was made during a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, where he outlined his intentions to reshape global trade policies.

Trump stated that the tariffs on auto imports would be "in the neighborhood of 25 percent" and are set to be implemented as early as April 2. This date coincides with the day his cabinet members are expected to deliver reports outlining options for various import duties. The proposed tariffs aim to address what Trump perceives as unfair treatment of U.S. automotive exports in foreign markets.

In addition to automobiles, Trump plans to impose similar tariffs on imported semiconductors and pharmaceutical goods. He mentioned that the government could collect 25% or higher in taxes for these imports, with the rates potentially increasing over the course of a year. Trump emphasized that he wants to give companies in these industries some time to build factories in the U.S. to avoid the new tariffs.

The proposed tariffs have raised concerns among economists and industry experts, who warn that they could lead to higher prices for consumers and increased costs for businesses. The automotive industry, in particular, could see significant price hikes, as nearly half of vehicle sales in the U.S. last year were imported from foreign countries.

Trump's announcement is part of a broader effort to promote "balanced" trade with foreign markets and encourage the reshoring of strategic industries. While the proposed tariffs could have far-reaching effects, Trump believes they will ultimately benefit the U.S. economy in the long run.


: [Yahoo News](https://ca.news.yahoo.com/trump-plans-to-impose-25-percent-tariffs-on-automobile-and-semiconductor-imports-130044480.html)

: [CBC News](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/trump-tariffs-pharma-chips-auto-25-percent-1.7462509)

: [MSN](https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/trump-plans-to-impose-25-tariffs-on-autos-chips-and-pharmaceuticals/ar-AA1zkWCA)

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