US Daily Brief - July 21, 2026

1. US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Some Canadian Goods

The US government has put a 50% tariff on certain goods from Canada. This means these products will cost more when sold in the US. The reason given is that Canada is discriminating against American products. Tariffs are taxes on imports, and they can affect trade between countries. This decision might make Canadian goods more expensive and could cause tension between the two neighbors. Businesses and consumers in both countries may feel the impact. We will need to wait and see if Canada responds or if the two governments find a way to solve this problem.

영어 표현 학습

• tariff — 관세, 수입세
  The government imposed a tariff on imported cars.
• discrimination — 차별
  The company was accused of discrimination against certain workers.
• put a tariff on — ~에 관세를 부과하다
  The country decided to put a tariff on steel imports.
• trade tension — 무역 긴장
  New tariffs increased the trade tension between the countries.

Source: Al Jazeera

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2. The Need for Better Immigration Policies in America

Many experts say that the current US immigration system is full of cruelty and recklessness. This means it is unfair and dangerous for many immigrants. The Center for American Progress calls for new immigration policies that are stronger and kinder. They argue that better policies will help America grow and be safer. Immigration affects many parts of life, including the economy and communities. Good policies can protect human rights and support the country’s future. People are hoping that lawmakers will listen and make important changes soon.

영어 표현 학습

• cruelty — 잔인함, 학대
  The film showed the cruelty of war.
• recklessness — 무모함, 부주의
  Driving without a seatbelt is an act of recklessness.
• immigration policy — 이민 정책
  The government is reviewing its immigration policy this year.
• call for — 요구하다
  Citizens call for better healthcare services.

Source: Center for American Progress

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3. Fewer Jobs Were Added in June in the US

In June, many US employers decided to pull back on hiring. This means they hired fewer workers than before. Reports show that the job market is not as strong as people expected. Some experts say this could be a sign that the economy is slowing down. When fewer jobs are created, it can be harder for people to find work. This news is important because jobs affect many parts of life, like income and spending. People will watch the next reports to see if this trend continues.

영어 표현 학습

• pull back on hiring — 채용을 줄이다
  The company had to pull back on hiring because of budget cuts.
• job market — 노동 시장, 취업 시장
  The job market is very competitive right now.
• weaker-than-expected — 예상보다 약한
  Sales were weaker-than-expected last quarter.
• sign of — ~의 신호
  This slow growth is a sign of economic problems.

Source: PBS

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4. Why Silicon Valley Keeps Watching China Closely

Silicon Valley, the US technology center, is looking over its shoulder at China. This means tech companies are worried about China’s actions and how it affects their business. The relationship between the US and China is complex, with competition and concerns about technology sharing. Many companies are careful about working with China because of political risks. This situation makes Silicon Valley feel nervous and uncertain about the future. Experts say this will affect how technology grows and where companies decide to invest.

영어 표현 학습

• look over its shoulder — 뒤를 조심스럽게 살피다
  The company is looking over its shoulder because of new competitors.
• tech company — 기술 회사
  Many tech companies are developing new software.
• political risk — 정치적 위험
  Investors avoid areas with high political risk.
• affect growth — 성장을 영향을 미치다
  New regulations can affect growth in the industry.

Source: The New York Times

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Today's Vocabulary Recap