Canada, U.S. Remain Far From Tariff Deal Before Aug. 19 Deadline as 50% Levies Loom
Updated
Updated · Global News · Aug 15
Canada, U.S. Remain Far From Tariff Deal Before Aug. 19 Deadline as 50% Levies Loom
3 articles · Updated · Global News · Aug 15
Summary
Canadian and U.S. negotiators are still well short of a trade deal after a week of Washington talks, leaving Ottawa racing to avert new U.S. tariffs due Aug. 19.
A 50% U.S. tariff threat covers roughly $28 billion of Canadian goods, while any deal now under discussion would still leave some tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos and lumber.
Softwood lumber remains a major sticking point: U.S. officials are not interested in cutting duties now near 45%, and Canadian sources say Ottawa had to fight to get forestry discussed at all.
Autos and dairy are also contentious, with one proposal cutting CUSMA-compliant auto tariffs to 10%-15% from 25% and Washington seeking wider tariff-free access for U.S. dairy into Canada.
Dominic LeBlanc stayed in Washington through the weekend as Prime Minister Mark Carney pushed a three-step strategy: strike a sectoral tariff deal now, build energy and defense partnerships next, then revisit CUSMA later.