Canada–U.S. trade: Carney says Washington is moving closer to Canada’s position

Mark Carney said on October 26 that any progress in the talks reflects Washington moving closer to Canada’s position. In the transcript published by Reuters, he maintains Canada’s limits and says any potential agreement will be assessed as a whole. [5]

What is confirmed

AP corroborates the remarks and reports that Dominic LeBlanc’s office describes the dialogue as constructive. This does not confirm a signed agreement. [6]

Kevin Hassett said on October 25 that Canada–U.S. talks were nearing an agreement, Bloomberg reports from his Fox News interview. The White House economic adviser described contacts between Howard Lutnick and his Canadian counterparts. His remarks do not announce a completed deal. [3]

Donald Trump signed a proclamation on October 23 removing some Canadian products from the additional 50% tariff and adding others. The changes take effect October 30 at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time. [1]

Relief alongside new additions

Reuters lists plywood, certain paper products and equipment among the exemptions. Carpets, paints and canoes are among the additions: this is not a general removal of tariffs. [2]

The responses

Republican Senator Susan Collins welcomes support for Maine producers. Democratic challenger Troy Jackson criticizes a policy that increased costs. Reuters reports that Dominic LeBlanc says Ottawa is assessing the changes. [2]

The exemption’s scope

Other duties, including those under Section 232, may still apply to products exempted from this additional tariff. [1]