WCIT Applauds House Vote to Terminate Emergency Tariffs on Canada

Congress Reasserts Constitutional Authority Over Trade Policy

SEATTLE – WCIT applauds yesterday’s bipartisan House vote to terminate the national emergency underlying President Trump’s 25% tariff on Canada. The 219-211 vote, made possible by Tuesday’s decision to allow tariff-related resolutions to move forward in the House, represents an important step toward restoring Congressional leadership on trade policy.

“Emergency tariffs are just that—for emergencies. Extended tariffs require Congressional approval, and we’re encouraged to see Congress reassert its constitutional authority over trade policy,” said Lori Otto Punke, President of WCIT. “Washington’s Congressional Delegation understands the importance of trade to our economy, and we want to thank everyone who stood up for our state’s workers, farmers, and businesses. Canada is our largest trading partner and is critical to Washington’s economy. In the first seven months of 2025 alone, Washington exported $4.1 billion in goods to Canada and imported $9.9 billion—representing nearly one-third of our state’s total trade.”

With the USMCA review scheduled for 2026, now is the time to strengthen—not undermine—our most important trade relationships. WCIT urges Congress to remain firm in opposing unilateral tariffs and calls on President Trump to work collaboratively to reduce tariffs and support the continuation of the USMCA. As WCIT detailed in October, the agreement provides critical protections for Northwest exporters and has saved Washington businesses millions in tariff costs while supporting thousands of jobs across our region.

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WCIT is the Northwest’s premier organization advocating for trade and investment policies that increase the competitiveness of Northwest workers, farmers, and businesses. Our diverse membership includes small and medium-sized companies, Fortune 500 businesses, and agricultural producers that together represent industries ranging from manufacturing, food, and retail to technology and science.