Prime Minister Mark Carney described the ongoing negotiations with the U.S. to prevent new tariffs as sensitive and rigorous, aiming to engage with the American leader within the next 48 hours to secure a mutually beneficial agreement. Avoiding specifics about the talks publicly, Carney emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong negotiating stance.
When questioned about potential retaliatory actions if an agreement is not reached, Carney asserted readiness for any scenario. Recent discussions between Carney and President Donald Trump focused on trade matters, with further details not disclosed by spokesperson Audrey Champoux.
Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and chief trade negotiator Janice Charette engaged in lengthy discussions with U.S. representatives, including Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. While an imminent resolution was anticipated, the finality of the meetings remains uncertain.
Though additional talks with Greer were not scheduled immediately post-meeting, Canadian officials may reconvene with him before Carney and Trump convene prior to the tariff deadline. The primary focus of negotiations revolves around the exchange of concessions between the two countries, encompassing various sectors such as liquor trade, automotive tariffs, and dairy industry regulations.
Despite the U.S.’s reluctance to eliminate tariffs entirely, Canada is pushing for the removal of threatened Section 338 tariffs and substantial relief for sectors impacted by previous levies. Erin O’Toole, a member of the Canada-U.S. advisory committee, emphasized the necessity of a fair deal beneficial to Canadian workers and the economy, expressing concerns over potential tariff escalations and their adverse effects on both nations.
The situation remains dynamic, with both parties striving for a mutually acceptable resolution to avoid escalating trade tensions.