Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to exhibit strength in ongoing trade discussions with the United States. Poilievre and Canada-U.S. relations critic Shuvaloy Majumdar criticized Ottawa for conceding to several of Trump’s requests in the past year. They highlighted actions such as eliminating the digital service tax, lifting Canada’s counter-tariffs, and agreeing to share net toll revenue from the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
In a letter to Carney, Poilievre expressed concern over job losses in Canadian manufacturing cities dependent on cross-border supply chains. He criticized Carney for continuously yielding to American demands without receiving equivalent benefits, leading to escalating tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and lumber.
Poilievre emphasized the need for a fair deal, including no tariffs on softwood lumber, removal of sectoral tariffs on steel and aluminum, a tariff-free auto pact, and exemptions from Buy America regulations on government infrastructure projects. He urged Carney to cease accepting unfavorable terms and to prioritize Canadian interests.
Upcoming tariffs of 50% on various Canadian goods by the U.S. are impending, prompting intensified trade discussions between the two nations before the deadline. The Conservative Party reiterated their proposal for a strategic reserve of critical minerals to strengthen Canada’s negotiating stance.
While Canada and Mexico advocate for an extended term for the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), the U.S. has opted for annual reviews. Dairy Farmers of Canada have urged the government not to compromise on the supply management system protecting Canadian dairy, as the U.S. considers it a trade obstacle.
The Canadian government is reportedly considering concessions to meet U.S. demands, such as ending alcohol bans and adjusting dairy policies, in exchange for tariff relief. Canada seeks the elimination of new tariffs, relief from sectoral tariffs, and a commitment to resume CUSMA talks in the fall from the U.S.