Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and his American counterpart are working on presenting a potential trade deal to President Donald Trump by Monday, according to CBC News sources. The joint proposal aims to be ready before the upcoming tariff deadline to allow Trump time to make a final decision before new 50% levies on numerous Canadian imports come into effect on August 19. The sources, who were briefed on the matter recently, requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak publicly.
LeBlanc held discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington, marking their third in-person meeting in three weeks. Following the meeting, neither LeBlanc nor Canada’s chief trade negotiator, Janice Charette, answered questions from reporters. LeBlanc later confirmed ongoing discussions and continued engagement at the negotiation table.
In addition to discouraging new tariffs, LeBlanc and Charette are seeking relief from sectoral tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian steel, aluminum, lumber, and autos. Canada also hopes 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 new tariffs effective August 19, citing various trade concerns, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies, alleged discrimination against U.S. motor vehicles and dairy, and alcohol bans affecting U.S. alcohol sales in Canadian provinces. These tariffs cover approximately 5% of Canadian exports to the U.S., including items like alcohol, hockey sticks, and cement.
Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner emphasized the importance of Canada securing a strong position in negotiations with the White House. She called for accountability from Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting the need for tangible trade agreements with the Trump administration. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre echoed these sentiments, urging Carney to prioritize zero tariffs on softwood lumber, an end to sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, a tariff-free auto pact, and full exemption from Buy America rules on infrastructure projects across all government levels.
The efforts of Canadian and American trade officials to pitch a trade deal to President Trump before the looming tariff deadline have been closely followed.
