Canadian leaders on the evolving trade relationship with the U.S.: “It’s a wake-up call”

Canada is a major trade partner with the United States. Politicians there say the ongoing trade talks leave them with more questions than answers, but they admit it is a good opportunity for some self-reflection as a country.

“It is a general wake-up call about the country,” said Jean Charest, co-chair of the Council of Canada–U.S. relations. “Twenty years from now, we may thank Donald Trump for doing this and allowing us to have a very hard look at ourselves and how we have managed our economy, because it used to be that we could take the Americans for granted. We can’t anymore. And rather than talk about what we’ll do, do it.”

Ag groups warn that the fertilizer markets would see the first impact of a trade war. As a result, Canadian leaders have created a special council.

Related Stories
Tidal Grow’s Align-N system delivers urea nitrogen directly to leaves, improving nutrient efficiency and boosting crop yields for farmers.
K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.
New wage rules improve accuracy but may still raise labor costs.
Tight global supply is likely to keep fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
Farmer Jeffry Mitchell with the Mississippi Farm Bureau joins us for a spring planting update from the southeast region as drought, input costs, and fertilizer access complicate crop progress.
The White House’s plan calls for a nearly 20 percent reduction in the USDA’s budget, which would impact various food and agriculture aid programs.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Thousands of pork producers from around the globe gathered in Des Moines, Iowa, this week for the World Pork Expo to showcase the latest production innovations and learn about market trends in the industry.
The 45,000 square foot facility inside the Market Center of the Ozarks offers 24/7 scheduling options, making it accessible to all.
Mike Vanmaanen, president of the Livestock Marketing Association, joins us Friday on the Market Day Report for a closer look at the Heritage Act.