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
Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Trade uncertainty—especially regarding soybeans—continues to weigh on future outlooks, even as farm finances and land values remain resilient.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Higher yields are cushioning lower acreage, but reduced production could support firmer potato prices into 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joined us with a recap of the Malaysia trade mission and a look at USDA’s broader trade strategy moving forward.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition shares how extreme winter weather is affecting the ag transportation network and what producers should keep in mind as conditions slowly improve.
Matt Brockman, Communications Director for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, joined us with a look at how the legendary event is moving forward—weather and all.
Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, offers an in-depth look at two of the top legal issues of 202. Today, he walks through last year’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) ruling and “lawfare.”
Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us with an update on the historic winter storm impacts and his outlook on today’s ag markets.