Stakes rise as talks continue without a tariff relief
Days of high‑profile dialogue between the United States and Canada yielded optimistic rhetoric but no final agreement on tariffs, signaling that the Canada‑U.S. trade dispute remains steeped in negotiation. President Donald Trump, speaking at the White House during a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, suggested a positive outcome was near, saying, “the people of this country will love us again,” and that Canada would walk away “very happy.” Yet by late afternoon, there was no binding deal on steel, aluminum, energy, or other sectors hit by tariff measures.
What was said in Washington
Trump framed the talks as a chance to treat Canada fairly within an overarching goal to favor American industry, including the hoped-for displacement of some Canadian products in U.S. markets. He also left room for renegotiation of existing agreements, hinting that a broader update to CUSMA could be on the table next year. The comments reflected a balance between a tough bargaining posture and a desire to preserve longstanding trade ties with Canada.
Carney’s role and the cautious tone
Prime Minister Carney did not hold a separate press conference in Washington; instead, Canada’s trade minister, Dominic LeBlanc, reported that the talks remained substantive and positive, with continued conversations aimed at achieving concrete outcomes. LeBlanc emphasized that negotiations will focus on steel, aluminum, energy, and other areas where mutual incentives must align with national interests.
Where the talks stand and what’s at stake
Despite optimistic messaging, the negotiating parties have yet to finalize a deal that would provide tariff relief to Canada’s core sectors. Ontario’s manufacturing sector, aluminum shipments, and forestry have all faced pressures from ongoing tariff regimes, while U.S. businesses and consumers have felt the ripple effects of higher costs and supply constraints.
Implications for the Canada-U.S. relationship
The current phase underscores the complexity of aligning national security justifications with economic interests. While both sides acknowledge the need for a fair arrangement, there is no guarantee of a quick resolution. Observers note that Canada is keen to preserve CUSMA’s tariff-free access for most goods, but with exceptions that remain sensitive under the tariff regime.
Public and political response
Conservative voices in Canada have urged Prime Minister Carney to secure tangible wins, warning that delaying action could erode confidence among workers and businesses. In the United States, the administration faces scrutiny over how tariffs impact inflation and consumer prices, as well as the broader political calculus of trade policy ahead of elections.
What happens next
With Carney staying in Washington to continue discussions, the two governments plan further negotiations aimed at delivering a framework that protects domestic industries while preserving bilateral trade ties. While a tariff-free Canada deal is not expected soon, officials remain hopeful that a deal can be reached that would provide greater certainty for businesses and workers in both countries.
