Subtitle:
Ottawa signals tougher stance as negotiations with Washington enter critical phase
Content:
Canada is prepared to increase tariffs on U.S. steel imports if a new trade agreement cannot be finalized by next month, Finance Minister Mark Carney warned in a strong message aimed at pushing forward stalled negotiations.
Speaking at a press conference, Carney said that while Canada remains committed to a fair and balanced deal, it will not hesitate to act in its own economic interest if talks fail to yield results. “If we do not reach a resolution soon, we will be forced to respond with adjusted tariffs,” he stated.
The warning marks a significant shift in tone from Ottawa, suggesting mounting frustration over what Canadian officials describe as a lack of progress in trade discussions with Washington.
The potential tariff hike would directly impact key U.S. steel exporters and could escalate trade tensions between the two longtime allies. Business leaders and industry stakeholders on both sides of the border are watching closely as negotiations continue.
With the deadline approaching, pressure is mounting on both governments to find common ground and avoid a renewed trade dispute that could affect jobs and manufacturing across North America.