U.S.-Canada Trade Talks Intensify Ahead Of Tariff Deadline

Canadian trade officials met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer this week as both countries work to avoid new tariffs scheduled to take effect Wednesday,  August 19th.

Canada’s Minister for U.S. Trade Relations Dominic LeBlanc said the two sides remain committed to negotiations and defending Canadian interests.  President Trump has proposed 50% tariffs on nearly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports, including products that previously received exemptions under USMCA.

Canadian officials have indicated they could offer concessions on some U.S. trade concerns in exchange for dropping the new tariffs. 

Reuters said for American farmers and ranchers, the negotiations are important because Canada is a major market for U.S. agricultural products.  New tariffs could raise costs, disrupt established trade flows, and potentially affect demand for U.S. commodities.

The latest meeting was the third between Canadian and U.S. trade officials in three weeks, underscoring the urgency as the August 19 deadline approaches. 

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