OTTAWA — In a strategic policy shift, the Canadian government announced it has exempted American seafood imports from its planned retaliatory counter-tariffs.

The decision comes after robust feedback from domestic processors, grocers, and restaurant operators, who cautioned that punitive duties would severely disrupt critical supply chains and raise prices for local consumers.

Federal trade officials confirmed the exemption takes effect immediately, bringing swift relief to cross-border commerce and stabilizing key bilateral market relations.