Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and the U.S. Trade Representative are working on a joint proposal to present to President Donald Trump before the upcoming tariff deadline. The proposal aims to potentially secure a trade deal and prevent new tariffs on Canadian imports.
LeBlanc recently met with the U.S. Trade Representative in Washington for the third time in three weeks. Following the meeting, LeBlanc mentioned that discussions are ongoing and both parties will continue engaging at the negotiation table.
In addition to seeking relief from new tariffs, LeBlanc and his team are also pushing for the removal of sectoral tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and autos. Furthermore, Canada hopes to extend the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) after the Trump administration opted not to renew the deal in July.
The U.S. recently announced new tariffs that would affect approximately five percent of Canadian exports, including products such as alcohol, hockey sticks, and cement. These tariffs are scheduled to take effect on August 19.
Conservative politicians in Canada are urging the government to secure a strong position in trade negotiations with the U.S. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the need for Prime Minister Mark Carney to deliver on trade promises made to Canadians. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also called on Carney to prioritize zero tariffs on softwood lumber, the removal of sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, a tariff-free auto pact, and exemptions to Buy America rules for infrastructure projects.
The ongoing efforts aim to secure a favorable trade agreement and prevent further economic disruptions between Canada and the United States.