Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc is scheduled to hold discussions with his U.S. counterpart in Washington on Wednesday morning to negotiate a potential agreement aimed at averting tariffs and resolving trade disputes between the two countries. The meeting between LeBlanc and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is set for approximately 11:15 a.m. ET, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the minister.
These talks follow a recent announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who revealed a three-day pause on imposing 50% tariffs on nearly $30 billion worth of Canadian goods. Trump cited a breakthrough in the negotiations as the reason for the temporary halt. A proclamation signed by Trump indicated that the U.S. is stepping back due to Canada’s commitment to address discriminatory practices and unfair impositions concerning American automotive, dairy, and liquor products. This points to the measures Canada has taken in response to Trump’s previous trade actions and its controlled dairy industry.
Trump took to social media on Tuesday night, declaring a “deal” with Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney also acknowledged progress in the negotiations but emphasized that there is still significant work ahead. Carney stated that while efforts continue, Canada remains focused on strengthening its domestic economy.
Greer expressed his approval on social media, commending Trump and highlighting an agreement that covers broad market access for American goods, economic security assurances, alignment in digital trade, and provisions safeguarding the U.S. market and workers.
Specific details of the negotiated terms remain limited, with neither side releasing documentation outlining potential concessions. Greer hinted at changes to certain Canadian policies, while Trump hinted at the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline, a project previously abandoned but now under consideration. Trump had previously authorized a similar cross-border pipeline project in April through an executive order.
Among the demands from the U.S. side are the reintroduction of American liquor in Canadian stores, removal of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. automobiles, and reforms in Canada’s dairy sector quota system. LeBlanc has advocated for the elimination of threatened Section 338 tariffs and a reduction in existing Section 232 fees on industrial goods such as steel, aluminum, automobiles, and lumber.
Carney reiterated the government’s commitment to finalizing a deal that addresses trade challenges and delivers tangible benefits to Canadian businesses, workers, farmers, and families.