Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and his American counterpart are working on a joint proposal to present to U.S. President Donald Trump before his upcoming tariff deadline. The aim is to offer a potential trade deal that could prevent new 50 per cent levies on numerous Canadian imports from taking effect on August 19.
LeBlanc recently met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington for the third time in three weeks. The meeting, which lasted about an hour, was part of ongoing discussions to engage in trade negotiations.
In addition to trying to deter new tariffs, LeBlanc and Charette are seeking relief from sectoral tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and autos. They are also hoping for an extension of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) after the Trump administration declined to renew the deal in July.
The U.S. recently announced new tariffs, citing various trade issues, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies and alleged discrimination against U.S. motor vehicles and dairy products. These tariffs will affect approximately five percent of Canadian exports and cover a range of goods from alcohol to hockey sticks to cement.
Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the importance of Canada negotiating from a position of strength. She called for accountability from Prime Minister Mark Carney, stating that he needs to deliver on promises made to Canadians regarding trade agreements with the U.S.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has also urged Carney to take a firm stance in trade negotiations. Poilievre emphasized the need for a favorable deal for Canadians, including zero tariffs on softwood lumber, an end to sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, a tariff-free auto pact, and exemption from Buy America rules on infrastructure projects.
The efforts to secure a trade deal before the tariff deadline demonstrate the urgency and complexity of the ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S.