U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer faced strong Republican concerns in a closed-door House meeting over the Trump administration’s escalating trade war with Canada, including a plan to lower tariffs on 300,000 metric tons of imported beef. The dispute intensified after late-August 2026 negotiations collapsed: Washington imposed 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion of Canadian goods, while Ottawa prepared reciprocal duties on nearly 900 U.S. products, including 25% tariffs on toilet paper and facial tissue and 50% duties on paper towels, napkins and raw wood pulp, effective September 8. The measures have heightened concerns over consumer prices, supply chains, ranchers, manufacturers and other regional industries as Republicans defend narrow congressional majorities ahead of the midterms. Canada supplied $328 million of U.S. toilet paper in 2024, and Canadian northern bleached softwood kraft pulp accounts for roughly 30% of a standard U.S. toilet paper roll and nearly half of U.S. paper towel production. The confrontation has produced conflicting accounts over why talks failed, with U.S. officials saying Canada rejected a strong offer and changed its position for political reasons, while Canadian officials blame Washington’s demands and negotiating tactics. Ottawa has announced C$7.5 billion in relief for affected small and medium-sized businesses, while President Donald Trump has threatened to raise separate U.S. tariffs on Canadian cars and auto parts from 25% to 50% if no agreement is reached by January 1, 2027.