Canada Seeks Independent Economy Amid US Trade War

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada intends to emerge from its trade war with the United States with a stronger, more resilient, and independent economy. Speaking at the 2026 Canada Investment Summit in Toronto, Carney said Ottawa will not rush into an agreement with Washington simply to end the dispute.

Carney noted that while about 80% of trade between the two countries remains tariff-free, there is a mutually beneficial arrangement that can be had. He emphasized that economic integration and national sovereignty are increasingly in tension, arguing that countries seeking to preserve their independence need to work more closely with like-minded partners.

Carney also announced plans to seek private investment through long-term concessions to operate Canada's four largest airports, which could raise tens of billions of dollars to reinvest in transportation and other infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of preserving national sovereignty while working with international partners, citing a need for countries to work more closely together.