Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to the White House today for a big chat with U.S. President Donald Trump. It’s all about easing tariffs that hurt Canadian goods. The meeting kicks off at 10 a.m. in Washington, D.C. Both leaders want to fix trade issues before the big review of their shared deal, the USMCA.
Carney, who took office in April, feels the heat. Canada’s economy shrank by 1.5% this summer, and tough U.S. taxes on steel, aluminum, and trucks are making things worse. About 75% of what Canada sells goes south of the border. Daily trade between the two countries hits $2.5 billion. Canada sends key stuff like steel, oil, and minerals that the U.S. needs a lot.
Trump slapped 50% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum under old rules. Now, a 25% hit on heavy trucks starts in November. Carney hopes to talk down these costs. He already cut some Canadian taxes on U.S. tech firms, but got nothing back so far. Experts say he must win something today, or face flak at home.
Trump joked before about making Canada the 51st state. He also said many Canadian firms are moving to the U.S. to dodge fees. Carney pushes back, noting most trade – over 85% – stays free of taxes under the USMCA. The average U.S. tariff on Canadian items is just 5.6%, the lowest for any partner.
This talk could shape jobs, prices, and ties between neighbors. Canada gives the U.S. 60% of its oil and most of its power from up north. If Carney scores wins on steel or trucks, it might calm nerves in Ottawa. But if not, opposition voices could get louder. Folks in both countries watch close – trade keeps families fed and factories running.