Just before Canada prepares to impose counter-tariffs on $27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, there is no indication of last-minute negotiations between the two countries. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that there are no scheduled discussions between Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, with no plans for Canadian trade negotiators to return to the bargaining table before the 12:01 a.m. ET Tuesday deadline when the counter-tariffs will take effect on more than 700 American products.
These counter-tariffs, ranging from 15 to 50 percent, are a retaliatory measure in response to Trump’s recent imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods after trade talks broke down last month. The highest tariffs are aimed at industries most impacted by U.S. tariffs, including steel, dairy, and wood products.
Despite U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer warning of potential bans on Canadian products in an interview with CBC News last week, former prime minister Jean Chrétien expressed support for the counter-tariffs and hinted at the possibility of implementing an export tax if necessary. The Conservatives are urging the government to be transparent about the impact of retaliatory tariffs on Canadians, emphasizing the need for clarity and a detailed plan moving forward.
While Greer blamed Canada for the breakdown in talks and suggested that the future of negotiations depends on Ottawa, Carney attributed the collapse to unfair U.S. terms that would hinder Canada’s trade agreements with other nations. He expressed willingness to return to negotiations if the U.S. shows sincerity in reaching a trade deal.
Trump, continuing his criticism of Canada, threatened to halt all trade with the country and raised concerns about the trade deficit. He also targeted a Canadian aircraft manufacturer, demanding that Bombardier must build in the U.S. to sell in the American market, despite Bombardier already having a U.S.-based factory and a significant presence in the country.
Overall, the escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada highlight the uncertainties surrounding future trade relations between the two nations.