US, Canada Rush to Seal Trade Deal Amid Tariff Deadline
US and Canadian negotiators returned to the negotiating table on Friday with just hours to spare before a midnight deadline for new US tariffs. The talks aim to finalize a deal that addresses trade flashpoints, including autos, steel, and aluminum tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
The tariffs have battered Canada's economy, forced job losses, and strained the once-ironclad trade relationship between the two nations. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney briefed provincial leaders on the proposed agreement, which reportedly includes reduced US tariffs in certain areas but not their complete removal.
Top Canadian negotiator Dominic LeBlanc met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer earlier this week and said they were 'very close' to a deal. However, some regional leaders have expressed skepticism about the agreement.