As Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, faces pressure to finalise a crucial trade deal with the US before a fast-approaching deadline, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew urges a robust stance. With the deadline set for Friday night, failure to secure an agreement could see new US tariffs imposed on Canadian goods.
President Donald Trump has commented that while no definitive deal is inked, the negotiations are “moving along.” He expressed optimism about reaching agreements with Canada and even commencing a fresh deal with Mexico. Meanwhile, Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc continues discussions with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Their latest meeting exceeded three hours, after which LeBlanc indicated the parties are “very close” to an agreement.
Details suggest the US might reduce tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium from 50% to 25%, and on automobiles from 25% to 15%. However, concessions might involve Canada lifting retaliatory tariffs and increasing market access for American dairy products. Prime Minister Carney has emphasised that negotiations aim to protect Canada’s crucial strategic sectors, while Trump celebrates potential benefits for American producers.
Provincial leaders express divergent views on these developments. Kinew criticises the potential reinstatement of US alcohol sales in Canada, seeing it as an unnecessary concession. He questions why Canada should forfeit leverage, especially with an “erratic” negotiating partner. Nevertheless, he would comply if it benefits the entire country, yet advises Manitobans to avoid purchasing the products. In Quebec, Premier Christine Fréchette, attentive to her province’s significant dairy sector, is scrutinising the deal’s impact before committing to any action on US alcohol sales.
Unlike his counterparts, Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford remains silent, although Nova Scotia and Yukon leaders have shown readiness to resume US alcohol sales. Matthew Shoemaker, the mayor of an Ontario city with a notable steel industry, voiced concerns about the impact of a deal still involving 25% tariffs on steel, which he feels offers little cause for celebration.
Political opposition has also arisen, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre decrying the potential one-sided nature of the tariffs. On the economic front, the imposition of additional tariffs could see job losses reach 90,000, according to Calgary economist Trevor Tombe.
Public sentiment reflects a desire for Canada to maintain a strong negotiating posture. Polling indicates 56% of Canadians favour a hardline approach against US demands. In a leaked audio from a private fundraiser, US Vice-President JD Vance reportedly mocked Carney’s negotiating strategy, claiming the Prime Minister portrays concessions as triumphs.
Reporting based on coverage first published by bbc.co.uk.