“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
The sugar policy debate affects prices, trade, and farm stability.
Cattle producers face mounting pressure as U.S.-Mexico trade talks resume, but expanding drought, rising input costs, and policy work to improve the long-term industry outlook.
Lower U.S. ethanol production and stocks may support ethanol prices while strong export demand continues to support ethanol and corn markets.
China’s changing pork demand may limit export growth opportunities.
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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Heritage Cup Begins Sunday, September 14th at 10 AM ET
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was once again on the national stage, front and center this week before the House Agriculture Committee.
Labor is an ongoing crisis in the ag sector. One industry group outlines three vital reforms to the H-2A visa program that farmers need to secure an affordable, stable workforce.
Experts estimate the flooding from Hurricane Helene caused more than $1.3 billion in damage to Tennessee agriculture.