Dominic LeBlanc anticipates that Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump will engage in discussions in the coming days to address Canada’s situation amidst a 35 percent blanket tariff imposed on exports to the U.S. LeBlanc, the minister in charge of Canada-U.S. trade, emphasized the potential for common ground between the two nations in fostering mutually beneficial economies during an appearance on CBS’s “Face The Nation.”
Following LeBlanc’s recent discussions in Washington without reaching a resolution, he expressed readiness to delve deeper into understanding American concerns within the trade relationship, stating a commitment to continue the necessary work. The increase in Canada’s tariff rate to 35 percent, initiated by a Trump executive order, was a response to perceived lack of cooperation in combating the southward flow of fentanyl and retaliatory measures against existing tariffs. Notably, only a limited range of Canadian products will be affected by this elevated rate, specifically excluding those covered by the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement governing trilateral trade.
LeBlanc expressed disappointment over Trump’s tariff escalation, while U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer highlighted Canada and China as the sole countries to retaliate against U.S. tariffs. In response to queries regarding Canada’s countertariffs, LeBlanc referenced Ottawa’s 25 percent tariff on U.S. steel and aluminum imports, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding Canada’s steel and aluminum industry for national security interests.
Furthermore, Trump’s imposition of the 35 percent tariff, utilizing emergency economic powers to address perceived national security threats, is currently facing legal opposition in federal appeals court, marking a significant milestone in the U.S. legal system concerning tariff challenges.