Canada Sees No Acceptable US Deal Yet, Carney Says

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared on Wednesday that the ongoing negotiations with the U.S. about softwood lumber and wider trade agreements have not produced any agreement which would benefit Canadian workers. During his speech in Hamilton Carney emphasized that high tariffs continue to block progress and refused to specify any acceptable tariff levels for Ottawa.

Carney recognized the increasing complexity of U.S. trade policy because Washington's current negotiations with other nations indicate a protectionist direction. The current proposals fail to reach the standards needed for a beneficial agreement between Canada and the United States according to Carney.

The softwood lumber dispute between Canada and the U.S. continues to be a major point of contention and Carney made it clear that finding a fair solution stands as a primary objective. The recent tariff increase plans from President Trump have created a sense of urgency but negotiations have made little progress.

The comments from Carney demonstrate the increasing need for Canada to defend its vital export industries while maintaining the core elements of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The ongoing talks show little promise because both parties prepare for economic damage from the rising tariff conflict.