Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and his American counterpart are working together to present a potential trade deal to U.S. President Donald Trump, as revealed by CBC News. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that the aim is to deliver the joint proposal to Trump before the upcoming tariff deadline. This timeline would allow Trump sufficient time to make a final decision before new 50% tariffs on numerous Canadian imports are set to come into effect on August 19.
LeBlanc recently engaged in discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington, marking their third in-person meeting within three weeks. Following their meeting, neither LeBlanc nor Canada’s chief trade negotiator, Janice Charette, provided comments to reporters. LeBlanc later shared on X that talks are ongoing, and he and Charette will continue negotiations.
In addition to discouraging new tariffs, LeBlanc and Charette are seeking relief from sectoral tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and automobiles. Canada is also hopeful for an extension of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) following the Trump administration’s decision not to renew the deal in July.
The U.S. recently announced the imposition of tariffs on August 19, citing various trade disputes, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies and alleged discriminatory practices against U.S. products. These tariffs cover approximately 5% of Canadian exports to the U.S., targeting a range of goods from alcohol to sports equipment.
Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the importance of Canada negotiating from a position of strength with the White House. She also raised concerns about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s tenure, urging him to deliver on trade agreements with the Trump administration. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre echoed these sentiments, calling for a robust trade deal that includes zero tariffs on softwood lumber, an end to sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, and exemptions to Buy America rules on infrastructure projects.
Overall, Canada and the U.S. are actively engaged in discussions to address trade challenges and reach a mutually beneficial agreement.