Just before Canada prepares to impose counter-tariffs on $27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods, there are no plans for last-minute negotiations between the two sides. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that there are no scheduled talks between Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump, and Canadian trade negotiators are not expected to return to the bargaining table before the 12:01 a.m. ET deadline on Tuesday when the counter-tariffs will be implemented on more than 700 American products.
These counter-tariffs, ranging from 15 to 50 percent, are a response to Trump’s recent imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods after trade discussions collapsed last month. The highest tariffs target industries most affected by U.S. tariffs, such as steel, dairy, and wood products.
In a recent CBC News interview, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer warned about possible U.S. retaliation, hinting at potential bans on Canadian products if Canada retaliates further. Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien supported the counter-tariffs and suggested Canada might need to consider additional measures, such as imposing export taxes on certain goods like oil, gas, electricity, and potash.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre urged the government to be transparent about the impact of retaliatory tariffs on families and businesses, emphasizing the need for clarity and a detailed plan. The government has not disclosed the anticipated impact of the tariffs but has announced $7.5 billion in support to assist workers and businesses amid the escalating trade tensions.
Greer, speaking to Fox News, blamed the breakdown of talks on Canada and stated that the future of negotiations depends on Canada’s willingness to resume discussions. Carney, on the other hand, attributed the talks’ failure to new terms proposed by the U.S., which he deemed unfair and detrimental to Canada’s interests. Carney expressed openness to returning to the negotiating table if the U.S. demonstrates seriousness in reaching a trade agreement.
Trump has continued to criticize Canada following the failed talks, threatening to cease all trade with the country. He also targeted Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier, demanding that they build in the U.S. to sell their products there. Bombardier already operates a U.S.-based factory in Kansas and has a significant presence in the U.S. market.
Overall, the future of trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. remains uncertain, with both sides standing firm on their positions amidst escalating tensions.