Ottawa Prepared to Reach Trade Agreement With Washington That Benefits Both Sides

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Thursday that Ottawa remains prepared to negotiate a long-term trade agreement with the United States, provided the deal delivers benefits for both countries. He stressed that Canada is not looking for a quick political announcement, but rather a durable arrangement that protects Canadian workers, families and businesses while also serving the interests of American consumers and companies.

Carney said Canada would be ready to return to the negotiating table whenever Washington is prepared to pursue such an agreement. At the same time, he made clear that Ottawa would not simply wait for the United States to make the next move. Canada, he said, is focused on strengthening its own economy and expanding trade relationships with countries around the world.

The prime minister also defended Canada's decision to suspend trade negotiations with Washington, saying the terms proposed by the US were unacceptable to Ottawa. He argued that Canada had acted in the best interests of its people by refusing to agree to conditions it considered unfair and economically damaging. Following the breakdown in talks, the United States introduced additional tariffs on Canadian goods, prompting Ottawa to announce retaliatory measures.

Canada's planned response is expected to affect several categories of US products, including steel, dairy products, appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper, and electronics. Carney has said Ottawa would match the new American tariffs dollar-for-dollar in an effort to protect Canadian workers, farmers, families and businesses.

The dispute has also intensified after US President Donald Trump announced plans to raise tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, automotive parts and steel imports to 50 per cent from January 2027. Trump has accused Canada of imposing high tariffs on American agricultural products and has argued that the US is less dependent on Canada than Canada is on the American economy.

Washington has also criticised Ottawa's decision to halt the negotiations, claiming that Canada introduced new demands and reversed earlier positions despite a US proposal that included potential sector-specific relief for industries such as steel, aluminium, automobiles and lumber. The American proposal also reportedly covered areas including digital trade, critical minerals, supply chains and export controls.

Carney's comments came as he announced that VIA Rail passenger coaches would once again be manufactured in Canada, marking the first time in four decades that such passenger cars will be built domestically. The move reflects Ottawa's wider push to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains.

Despite the worsening trade relationship, Carney's latest remarks indicate that Canada remains open to reaching an agreement with the United States. However, Ottawa appears determined to ensure that any future deal is economically sustainable, protects Canadian interests and provides lasting benefits for both sides rather than serving as a short-term political settlement.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.