Collins Warns of Tariff Consequences for Maine Economy

Senator Susan Collins of Maine has written to the U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jameison Greer, urging them to resume negotiations with Canada and reach a fair trade agreement.

The Senator expressed concern that if the tariffs continue as planned, approximately $170 million worth of goods from Maine will be subject to Canadian retaliatory tariffs, mainly from the forest products sector.

She highlighted that nearly 90% of Maine is covered by forests, and this economic sector supports around 30,000 jobs and contributes more than $8 billion to the state's economy.

The Senator also mentioned that two paper mills in Maine have already contacted her about the increased costs they will incur and potential impact on employment levels.