Canada launches NAFTA challenge of 'illegal' U.S. tariffs on solar panels

The Trudeau government has asked for a NAFTA review of a Trump administration tariff on solar panel cells, saying the 30-per-cent charge is illegal and unfair.

The Liberal government considers the latest trade challenge a part of its broader defence of the international-rules based trading order — something U.S. President Donald Trump is regularly accused of undermining with his "America First" protectionist policies.

The request Monday for a review under NAFTA's chapter 20 provision comes one day after Mexico's president- elect publicized a letter to Trump, calling for a reboot of the talks towards a new three-way continental trade pact.

Global Affairs Canada said the tariff has hurt workers in the clean energy sector on both sides of the border...

This was excerpted from the 23 July 2018 edition of CBC News.