Canada–US Trade will Continue “when the time is right” – Carney

Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, says trade talks with the United States will continue “when it’s appropriate,” telling reporters that there is no need to focus on when he last spoke with US President Donald Trump.

When asked about his most recent communication with Trump, Carney brushed off the question, saying, “Who cares? It’s a detail. I’ll speak to him again when it matters.” His comments come at a time when trade relations between Canada and the US remain tense.

Trade talks were halted last month after President Trump became upset over an anti-tariff advertisement aired in Ontario. The ad used a 1987 speech by former US President Ronald Reagan, warning that tariffs could harm the American economy. Trump reportedly took the ad as a direct criticism of his trade policies.

Speaking on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Carney said the two leaders could resume discussions “probably in the next two weeks.” Despite disagreements, Trump has not gone ahead with an additional 10% tariff he threatened to place on Canadian imports.

Canada remains the only G7 nation without a current trade agreement with the US, even though both countries are major trading partners. The US has imposed a 35% levy on Canadian goods, although many items are exempt under an existing trade framework. There are also extra tariffs of 50% on metals and 25% on cars, which Canada is hoping to reduce through negotiations.

Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre criticised Carney’s relaxed attitude, saying that his comments show a lack of urgency for Canadian workers affected by these levies. With about 75% of Canada’s exports going to the US, any increase in tariffs could heavily affect the national economy.

Carney has been trying to diversify Canada’s trade relationships to reduce reliance on the US. Over the weekend, he and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that both countries are starting talks on a long-awaited trade agreement. This comes after relations between Canada and India were strained in 2023 following the killing of a Sikh separatist leader in Vancouver. Carney is expected to visit India next year to continue dialogue.

The prime minister also met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, announcing progress on a partnership involving critical minerals. Both countries said they hope to expand trade in the coming years.

Carney has faced criticism for strengthening ties with India and the UAE, countries that have faced accusations of interference or involvement in foreign conflicts. He said India remains a reliable partner despite “sources of friction,” and noted that the UAE has helped with humanitarian efforts, though the issue of Sudan’s war was discussed as well.