Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and his American counterpart are working on presenting a potential trade deal to U.S. President Donald Trump soon, according to sources briefed on the matter. The aim is to present the joint proposal to Trump at least a day before his upcoming tariff deadline. This timeline would allow Trump adequate time to make a final decision before new 50 per cent levies on hundreds of Canadian imports are set to be imposed on August 19.
LeBlanc recently held discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington. This marked their third in-person meeting in three weeks. Following the meeting, neither LeBlanc nor Canada’s chief trade negotiator, Janice Charette, responded to reporters’ questions. LeBlanc later confirmed that discussions are ongoing and that they will continue to engage in negotiations.
In addition to efforts to prevent new tariffs, LeBlanc and Charette are seeking relief from sectoral tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and autos. Canada is also hopeful 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. recently announced the implementation of tariffs on August 19, citing various trade issues, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies and alleged discrimination against U.S. products. The targeted goods under the new tariffs represent approximately five per cent of Canadian exports to the U.S., ranging from alcohol to sports equipment to construction materials.
Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the importance of Canada ensuring a strong negotiating position with the White House. She pointed out the delay in securing a trade agreement with the Trump administration and called for accountability from Prime Minister Mark Carney. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also urged Carney to prioritize zero tariffs on softwood lumber, an end to sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, a tariff-free auto pact, and exemption from Buy America rules on infrastructure projects.
Overall, the efforts are focused on finalizing a trade deal to address existing trade issues and secure a beneficial agreement for both Canada and the U.S.