US exempts Canadian packing materials and machinery from 50% tariff

A White House proclamation dated 23 October 2026 removes the 50% tariff on a group of Canadian goods including corrugated boxes, crates, plastic sacks, packing machinery and refrigeration equipment, while adding the same 50% rate to shampoo, vinyl flooring, coffins, carpets and window air conditioners. The changes take effect 30 October 2026; the underlying 50% tariffs, covering about USD 20bn of Canadian products, were imposed in late August 2026 after US-Canada trade talks broke down.

Why this mattersUS growers and packers buying Canadian corrugated boxes, crates and packing machinery avoid a 50% duty from 30 October, easing packaging and equipment costs.

• White House proclamation dated 23 October 2026 lowers the 50% tariff on a list of Canadian goods, effective 30 October 2026
• Exempted goods include corrugated boxes, crates, plastic sacks, packing machinery, refrigeration equipment and seaweed, per CBS News
• Newly subject to 50% duties: shampoo, vinyl flooring, coffins, carpets and window-unit air conditioners
• The original 50% tariffs covered about USD 20bn of Canadian products and were imposed in late August 2026 after trade talks with Canada failed
• US importers, not foreign exporters, pay the tariffs and must pass on or absorb the cost, according to the Associated Press
• Maine Senator Susan Collins cited reliance by wild blueberry, apple and potato growers on Canadian harvesting boxes and packaging equipment as a reason for the exemptions

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