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Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Canada’s Chief Trade Negotiator Janice Charette updated provincial and territorial trade ministers on ongoing Canada-U.S. trade negotiations, emphasizing efforts to resolve outstanding issues before the August 19 deadline. The discussions centered on securing relief from existing sectoral tariffs and preventing new Section 338 tariffs planned by the United States. Both officials highlighted the importance of addressing trade barriers to protect Canadian economic interests across sectors.

The meeting also addressed progress toward modernizing the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), with Canada seeking updates to better align the agreement with current trade dynamics. Minister LeBlanc and Mme Charette underscored the need for a coordinated approach to ensure Canadian workers, farmers, and businesses are not disadvantaged by new tariffs or trade restrictions.

Minister LeBlanc and Mme Charette, participating virtually from Washington, D.C., reiterated the Government of Canada’s commitment to a Team Canada approach, involving close collaboration with provinces and territories. They thanked ministers for their ongoing support in advancing Canada’s trade priorities and protecting domestic economic interests during the negotiations.

The briefing follows intensified trade discussions between Canada and the United States as both countries work to finalize terms before the August 19 deadline. The Government of Canada emphasized the importance of securing mutually beneficial outcomes that support Canadian industries and maintain stable trade relations with the U.S.