Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and the U.S. Trade Representative are working towards presenting a potential trade agreement to President Donald Trump by Monday. The aim is to propose a joint plan to Trump before the looming tariff deadline, providing him with time to make a final decision before new tariffs on Canadian imports take effect on August 19.
LeBlanc recently met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington for the third time in three weeks. Following the meeting, LeBlanc mentioned that discussions are ongoing, emphasizing their commitment to negotiations.
Efforts are being made to prevent new tariffs on Canadian goods and seek relief from existing tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and automobiles. Additionally, Canada hopes 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. cited several trade issues, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies and alleged discrimination against U.S. products. The upcoming tariffs will impact approximately five percent of Canadian exports to the U.S., covering a range of goods from alcohol to sports equipment.
Conservative lawmakers in Canada are urging the government to secure a favorable trade deal with the U.S. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the importance of Canada being in a strong position during negotiations. Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called on the government to prioritize securing zero tariffs on lumber, ending sectoral tariffs, and ensuring favorable terms for Canadian industries in trade agreements.