Carney Seeks Broader Tariff Relief as Trump’s 50% Levy Looms

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is seeking a trade deal with the US that removes Section 232 tariffs on key sectors, including steel, aluminum, autos, and lumber. The tariffs, imposed by US President Donald Trump, have been battering the Canadian economy. Carney stated that Canada wants all 232s addressed, and is looking for a comprehensive agreement. The two countries are currently negotiating to find a trade deal by August 19, the deadline set by Trump for new 50% tariffs on Canadian-made goods. If the tariffs proceed, Canada may retaliate. Carney has been personally involved in the talks and has made repeated attempts to negotiate a trade deal with Trump, including removing most of Canada’s retaliatory countertariffs. US officials have complained about the retaliation Canada still has in place, particularly the moves by multiple provinces to pull US-made alcohol from their liquor agencies’ shelves. The discussions include a revived proposal from last year that would see a tariff quota set for Canadian steel and aluminum imports to the US.