“Our economy is stronger": Canadian officials say they’re better situated to weather a trade war

President Trump’s tariff delay was welcomed news for some, but Canada’s new Prime Minister warns the situation will hurt American farmers more than theirs.

“Our economy is stronger than the American economy. We do have a better balance sheet than the United States. And we are going to be stronger than the American economy, particularly if the U.S. government continues to pursue these types of policies. We do have opportunities to build this economy. We are looking to expand our trading relationships,” said Mark Carney.

Carney became Canada’s next Prime Minister after winning the Liberal Party’s race last night. During a speech to supporters, he rebuked President Trump’s calls to make Canada the 51st U.S. state.

Not all tariffs were delayed last week. The President signed executive orders delaying tariffs only on items under the USMCA until April 2nd, and this includes both Canada and Mexico. The 10 percent energy tariff on Canada is still in place, but he has taken action on potash imports, lowering that tariff rate to 10 percent, down from 25 percent.

With planting season around the corner, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is backing President Trump’s plan, saying, “President Trump’s announcement which includes a reduction of tariffs on potash not already covered under the USMCA from 25% to 10% is a critical step in helping farmers manage and secure key input costs at the height of planting season while reinforcing long-term agricultural trade relations.”

Related Stories
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum warns farmers to brace for more losses as the war in Iran sends shockwaves through the ag economy and raises input costs even further.
Rising fertilizer costs tied to tariffs are tightening margins for U.S. wheat growers, according to new data from the National Association of Wheat Growers.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, outlines potential risks for agriculture as negotiations continue between the two countries
Consistent sorghum quality supports strong export demand potential.
Corn and sorghum exports remain strong; soybean demand lags.
Secretary Rollins is signaling a possible reopening of the southern border to Mexican feeder cattle as officials work to manage the threat of the New World Screwworm.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
Market analyst Kevin Huddleston said news of trade deals could rebound cotton prices in late fall, and producers need to be ready to strike deals.
Texas A&M 4-H Director Montza Williams joins for an update on the expected timeline for the program’s new facility and all the associated benefits.
From tinkering with machines to building projects from scratch, students in the National FFA Organization develop skills to help shape future careers.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us to break down the latest data on Canadian farmland values and share insights on how it impacts producers.
Lewis Williamson, from HTS Commodities, joined us to share insights on the farm economy from producers in the field.