Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Tuesday that his administration is considering every available alternative following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a planned 50 percent tariff on numerous Canadian imports, set to take effect in 30 days. Carney noted that he and the President have pledged to increase engagement regarding a potential resolution, though he did not confirm any personal travel to Washington for negotiations.
Addressing the press, Carney emphasized that the government is preparing potential reactions should these tariffs become reality. The proposed levies would impact a wide range of goods, including cement, hockey gear, and wine, though energy products, potash, and items already covered by specific trade restrictions are excluded. Notably, these tariffs would affect products currently governed by the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a pact Washington stated it would not extend in its existing format as of July 1.
Carney expressed that securing an all-encompassing agreement remains the primary goal. Although President Trump has implemented various duties since re-assuming office, previous measures often included exemptions for USMCA-related trade. Meanwhile, Canada’s opposition party has voiced concerns, urging the government to prioritize the expansion of domestic resource access as a strategic counter-measure rather than solely pursuing new trade pacts.
