Canada's Approach to Trade with the US: A Calculated Standoff

Thu Nov 27 2025 11:57:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney appears unhurried in resuming trade talks with the US. As trade tensions mount, Carney's stance raises questions about the future of Canadian exports and the country's strategic response to the ongoing trade war.

Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada has displayed a lack of urgency in resuming trade talks with the United States, despite rising tensions and criticism from the opposition. With discussions recently stalled due to an advertisement controversy, experts suggest both nations are engaged in posturing ahead of key midterm elections in the US. Canada is still advocating for its interests, while pursuing measures to mitigate the effects of US tariffs on key sectors.

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney appears in no rush to resume trade talks with the US. He dismissed a question over the weekend about when he last spoke to US President Donald Trump, responding: Who cares? It's a detail. I'll speak to him again when it matters, adding that there is no burning issue to discuss.

Critics argue that Carney's tranquility over trade negotiations indicates a shift in Canada’s approach. Currently, talks between the two nations are on hold, primarily due to a dispute over an anti-tariff advertisement that aired in the US, which offended Trump.

Despite this stalemate, sources suggest Carney may travel to Washington next week for the FIFA World Cup draw, presenting an opportunity for informal talks with Trump. Experts believe both leaders are engaging in strategic posturing, with Trump and Carney trying to appear nonchalant while significant economic interests hang in the balance.

The Canadian government is providing financial relief to sectors hit hard by US tariffs and is committed to pushing for trade discussions, although significant advancements in negotiations have yet to materialize.

Criticism from the opposition is mounting, accusing Carney of ignoring thousands of job losses due to trade tensions. As midterm elections approach and a review of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement looms, there are hopes that pressures from businesses will prompt a return to negotiations.