GENEVA (CHATNEWSTV) — April 7, 2025 — Canada has filed a formal complaint at the World Trade Organization, challenging the United States’ imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian automobiles and auto parts, a move Ottawa says violates international trade rules.
The WTO confirmed on Monday that Canada’s request for dispute consultations was circulated to all members, marking the official launch of proceedings in case number WT/DS637/1.
Canada argues that the U.S. duties are inconsistent with Washington’s commitments under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994. The complaint alleges the tariffs lack justification and unfairly target Canadian industry.
Under WTO rules, a request for consultations is the first step in resolving trade disagreements. It gives both parties 60 days to negotiate a settlement before the dispute can escalate to a full adjudication by a WTO panel.
If no resolution is reached within that window, Canada may formally request the establishment of a panel to rule on the legality of the U.S. measures.
The duties have been a longstanding point of contention between the two North American trade partners, with Canadian officials warning that the levies threaten jobs and investment in the country’s critical auto sector.
The United States had not issued an immediate response as of Monday afternoon.
This latest case adds to a growing list of trade disputes involving Canada and the U.S., two of the most active participants in the WTO’s dispute settlement system.
