The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Ottawa is hitting back against the United States with hefty countertariffs on $27.6-billion worth of American products. The triple-bylined item led by Bill Curry quotes the federal government saying the new tariffs aim to support Canadian companies increase political pressure in the United States. Ottawa is targeting nearly 900 items, with most of the levies set at 25 per cent or 50 per cent, while a small number are subject to a 15-per-cent duty. The tariffs are scheduled to come into force on Sept. 8. Ottawa also announced a $7.5-billion support package. Canada's key retaliation measure is raising tariffs on steel and aluminum, and related products, from 25 per cent to 50 per cent. After that, the biggest hit will be to machinery and mechanical appliances, paper and paperboard, electrical machinery and seafood. Ottawa is targeting various consumer items such as dishwashers, refrigerators, furniture, lighting, golf clubs, motorcycles, beauty products, video game consoles and smart phones, despite most Canadian smart phones not being U.S.-made. Tariffs on steel and aluminum are the most significant; they are increased to 50 per cent from the current 25 per cent.