Trump doubles tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium as trade war intensifies

US President Donald Trump has said he will double planned tariffs on Canadian aluminium and steel (Alex Brandon/AP)

US President Donald Trump has said he will double his planned tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium from 25% to 50%, escalating a trade war with his northern neighbour.

He said the increase in the tariffs set to take effect on Wednesday is a response to the price rises the provincial government of Ontario put on electricity sold to the United States.