- U.S. President Donald Trump threatens 50% tariffs on a range of Canadian products, set to take effect on August 19.
- Canada's premiers gathered in Charlottetown for the annual Council of the Federation meeting to discuss a response to the tariff threat.
- During the meeting, premiers expressed optimism and concerns regarding negotiations with the U.S.
- Prime Minister Mark Carney participated in a four-hour First Ministers' Meeting with the premiers on Thursday.
- Carney held private meetings with individual premiers, including Quebec's Christine Fréchette.
- Carney concluded the meeting by declaring unity among the provinces and warning that 'everything's on the table' if no trade deal is reached.
- Carney emphasized that unity is Canada's greatest strength in facing the tariff threat.
- The Prime Minister is under pressure from premiers to provide a plan if Trump proceeds with the tariffs.
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated that Canada must respond strongly to Trump's threats.
In a critical meeting in Charlottetown, Prime Minister Mark Carney and provincial premiers united against looming U.S. tariffs, with Carney declaring, "everything's on the table" for retaliation if negotiations fail.246
The U.S. plans to impose 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, prompting Carney to stress the need for a cohesive response.8
"Canadian governments around this table will do whatever it takes to defend and support our families, our workers, and our businesses," he stated, highlighting the importance of unity.7
Ontario Premier Doug Ford echoed this sentiment, asserting that Canada must not "keep rolling over for Donald Trump".9
Carney noted that Canada is in a stronger position now than 18 months ago, thanks to efforts to diversify trade and strengthen the economy.
Premiers are calling for a comprehensive trade agreement that addresses all tariff-affected sectors, including softwood lumber and manufacturing.
"When Team Canada is united, there is nothing that you can’t do," Carney remarked, emphasizing the historical lessons of unity.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz, who stated that discussions with the Prime Minister would carry a new level of urgency.
As negotiations intensify, the premiers are keen to ensure their interests are represented in any federal strategy, particularly regarding sectors like dairy and cultural preservation.
“Carney has held 14 meetings with premiers since March 2025, including five in person. Ontario's Doug Ford urged retaliation, saying 'we can't keep rolling over for Donald Trump,' and Quebec's Christine Fréchette demanded full involvement in negotiations, particularly on dairy supply management.”
The Globe and Mail
