U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has indicated that both U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will receive “options” following recent trade discussions between Canadian and U.S. trade officials. Greer described the meetings as “good” and “cordial” during an exclusive interview with CBC News. He mentioned that discussions will also take place with the president and prime minister.
Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc stated that he will continue fulfilling Canadians’ expectations without specifying the number of forthcoming meetings with Greer, emphasizing a commitment to hold as many meetings as necessary. Additionally, LeBlanc is scheduled to provide an update to the federal government’s Advisory Committee on Canada-U.S. Economic Relations on Friday, aiming to inform them about the negotiation progress.
LeBlanc, along with chief trade negotiator Janice Charette, met with Greer for the second time this week and the fourth time in three weeks. Talks have intensified since Trump’s threat to impose 50% duties on numerous Canadian goods, in addition to existing sectoral tariffs set to be effective on August 19.
Moreover, LeBlanc and Greer are working on a proposal to present to Trump before the tariff deadline, aiming to lower sectoral tariffs while seeking preferential access to Canadian critical minerals. The Canadian side is pushing for a potential trade deal path to be presented to Trump as early as Monday. However, the Canadian team has emphasized that there would be limited political support for continued negotiations if the August 19 tariffs are imposed.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed willingness to reintroduce U.S. alcohol into the province if a fair deal is reached, highlighting the importance of protecting Ontario’s key sectors. Ford also emphasized that “a tariff on Canada is a tax on the American people,” echoing sentiments from Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette’s office regarding the removal of U.S. alcohol from Quebec outlets until a fair agreement is reached.