- Negotiators are working until the last minute on a trade deal, with LeBlanc saying, "We have more work to do" and "We're going to continue working up until the last minute."
- Stuart Trew expressed concern that leaked details suggest the deal may not be good, citing remaining tariffs on steel and aluminum at 15 per cent as "pretty unsustainable for the industry."
- Smith said the aim is to get "the best agreement in the world of any nation with the United States and a reduction in the current tariffs," acknowledging that not all products will be tariff-free.
- Jacques Shore stressed the urgency of a trade agreement to protect goods currently under CUSMA from potential 50 per cent tariffs.
- Kenney warned that preliminary concessions could be an "appetizer for the main meal" of CUSMA renewal, and said it's "tricky" for Mark Carney.
- Robert Glasgow said the deal won't eliminate tariffs entirely and that Carney's team is likely focused on preserving the CUSMA exemption and driving tariffs "as low as he can on as broad of a basis as he can get it."
Negotiators for Canada and the U.S. are racing against the clock to finalize a trade deal, with Canadian Minister LeBlanc emphasizing, “We have more work to do.” As the deadline looms, concerns are mounting over potential tariffs on steel and aluminum, which could significantly impact Canadian businesses and workers.1
LeBlanc's comments came after a late meeting at the U.S. trade representative's office, where he reiterated the importance of reaching an agreement that meets the expectations of Canadian workers and businesses. “We’re going to continue working up until the last minute. Our job is not finished,” he stated.
Concerns about the deal's viability have been voiced by industry experts. Stuart Trew remarked, “For some of the leaks we’ve seen, it doesn’t sound like it’s going to be a good deal,” highlighting the potential for tariffs on steel exports to remain in place. He described the situation as “pretty low-key horrible.”2
Trade lawyer Robert Glasgow noted that while negotiations are ongoing, “There is going to be a good amount of negotiation left.” He suggested that the deal may not eliminate tariffs entirely, but efforts are likely focused on preserving the CUSMA exemption and minimizing tariffs as much as possible.456
As the negotiations continue, the stakes are high for Canadian businesses, with many hoping for a resolution that avoids further tariff increases. “Let’s keep in mind we’ve been at this for nine years,” said Brian Menzies, expressing skepticism about the outcome but emphasizing the need for certainty for small businesses.
“Stuart Trew warns leaked details suggest the deal may not be good, citing remaining steel and aluminum tariffs at 15 per cent as 'pretty unsustainable for the industry.' Jacques Shore stresses urgency to protect CUSMA-covered goods from potential 50 per cent tariffs.”
