WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — Canadian trade officials are bracing for additional tariffs set to take effect this week as negotiations continue with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Officials are hoping a draft agreement can be presented as soon as Monday, ahead of Wednesday’s tariff deadline. The White House is rolling out the tariffs over issues involving dairy trade, alcohol and vehicles. Canadian negotiators warn that 50% duties could derail future discussions if they take effect.
Beth Burke with the Canadian American Business Council said a recent report shows how much is at stake in the trade relationship.
“One point four million American jobs and two point five million Canadian jobs depend on the bilateral relationship. This report also found that without renewal of USMCA, there is a lot at stake. There’s one trillion dollars at stake for the U.S. economy if this agreement doesn’t hold.”
A recent poll also found 70% of Americans have a favorable view of Canada. The talks come as both sides work to find common ground on the USMCA trade agreement, which is now operating on a month-to-month basis.
