Canada-US Trade Talks Collapse Amid Disagreements

Canada's Liberal MPs strongly support Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to suspend trade negotiations with the United States, but are concerned about the potential long-term impact on Canada's economy.

The talks had been ongoing for a year before collapsing on August 21. Carney described the final draft agreement as 'unfair' and 'uneconomic', citing concerns over French-language protections and Canada's ability to maintain trade relationships with other countries.

'Very frightening, absolutely very frightening,' said Liberal MP Judy Sgro, chair of the House International Trade Committee, regarding the potential consequences. 'We need to stand together and help each other weather the storm.'

The Canadian side had proposed last-minute conditions that were unacceptable to Washington, according to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

The US has imposed 50-per-cent tariffs on $20-billion of Canadian products in retaliation for Canada's decision to suspend talks. Canada is expected to impose similar tariffs on American imports starting September 8.