The Canadian government announced a temporary suspension of tariffs on certain U.S. imports for six months, in a move aimed at easing trade tensions with the United States and relieving economic burdens on domestic industries.

According to a statement issued by Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, the suspension includes U.S. goods used in Canadian manufacturing sectors, food and beverage processing and packaging, as well as essential materials for public health and national safety.

The government also announced a temporary exemption for the automotive industry, allowing car manufacturers that continue to produce and invest in Canada to import a limited number of U.S. vehicles without tariffs, provided they adhere to local production commitments.

These measures come in the wake of the United States imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automotive imports, prompting Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. imports.

This step aims to protect the Canadian economy from the repercussions of the trade war while maintaining a firm stance in defending national interests.