In August, Canada’s overall trade surplus widened to $4.2 billion, well above the Reuters forecast of $1.55 billion. The jump reflects a sharp rise in shipments to the United States, where exports grew 8.1 % while imports fell 2.5 %.

The surge was driven by exporters moving roughly $20 billion of goods to the U.S. before a 50 % tariff, announced by the Trump administration, became active on Aug 22. The tariff applies to a wide range of products, from wine to hockey equipment.

Because of the front‑loading, Canada recorded a trade surplus with the United States of $11.2 billion – the highest level in 19 months. The United States now accounts for almost 70 % of Canada’s total exports, the first time this share has been that high since September 2025.

Overall, Canadian exports rose 2.5 % to $77.91 billion in August, while imports dropped 2 % to $73.71 billion. The combined effect of higher exports and lower imports lifted the country’s trade balance to its strongest position in four years.