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CMHC Just Cut Its Housing Forecast — What It Means If You're Buying, Selling, or Renewing

  Published July 28, 2026 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation quietly downgraded its outlook for the rest of 2026 last week, and the new numbers are worth a look no matter which side of the housing market you're standing on. The federal housing agency's Summer 2026 update now calls for slower growth, softer home prices, fewer new builds and continued easing in rental markets right through the end of the year — with a split that leaves Ontario and B.C. looking a lot different from the Prairies and Quebec. Here's what's actually in the update, and what it means for your specific situation. What CMHC changed The agency's baseline call for 2026 is a Canadian economy growing at just 0.7%, with high borrowing costs, weak population growth and cautious buyers keeping a lid on demand even as affordability has technically improved. The practical result, nationally: Housing starts are expected to fall to about 241,400 units this year, down from 259,028 in 2025 Resale acti...

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China Retaliates Against U.S. Tariffs with Agricultural Countermeasures

 

In a significant escalation of trade tensions, China has announced retaliatory tariffs on a range of U.S. agricultural products. This move comes in response to the United States' decision to increase tariffs on Chinese imports. The newly imposed Chinese tariffs, set to take effect on March 10, will target key American exports, including soybeans, pork, beef, and poultry, with additional duties ranging from 10% to 15%.

The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of U.S. exports to China, is expected to feel the brunt of these measures. Soybeans, the largest U.S. agricultural export to China, will face a 10% tariff, potentially disrupting a trade flow valued at nearly $13 billion annually. Other affected products include wheat, corn, cotton, and various dairy and seafood items.

China's actions highlight its strategic approach to diversifying its agricultural imports, with increased reliance on suppliers from South America and other regions. This development underscores the growing economic friction between the world's two largest economies, with both sides showing no signs of backing down.


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