Carney says Canada will resume trade talks when’ Americans are ready’
(MENAFN) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has stated that Canada is ready to resume trade negotiations with the US "when the Americans are ready," following an abrupt end to talks triggered by an advert critical of US tariffs.
This statement comes after US President Donald Trump announced the immediate termination of trade talks in response to a commercial from Ontario, which criticized the tariffs he imposed on Canada. The advert, featuring a quote from former US President Ronald Reagan, argues that tariffs "hurt every American" and ultimately harm the economy.
The ad, sponsored by Ontario, features Reagan’s voice from a 1987 national radio address, which warned that trade barriers, while temporarily beneficial, eventually lead to retaliation, economic collapse, and job losses. Reagan’s stance against tariffs in the ad was cited as contradictory to Trump's current policy. The Ronald Reagan Foundation, which protects the former president’s legacy, later issued a statement claiming the ad misrepresented Reagan’s position and was made without proper permission.
Trump responded sharply, labeling the advert “FAKE” and "egregious," claiming it was designed to influence the US Supreme Court's decision in November about the legality of his sweeping tariffs on several countries. The court's ruling could result in the US being forced to refund billions in tariffs collected.
Despite the disruption caused by the advert, Carney downplayed the issue, emphasizing that Canada had made significant progress in trade talks with the US and would be ready to continue negotiations when the US is open to them. Carney also stressed that Canada was focusing on diversifying trade relationships globally.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a vocal critic of the tariffs, defended the ad by posting Reagan’s full 1987 speech on social media. Ford highlighted the strong bond between Canada and the US, referencing Reagan’s speech as a reminder of the benefits of free trade between the nations.
The ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the US has been exacerbated by Trump’s tariffs, including a 25% levy on automobiles and a 50% tariff on metals, which have significantly affected Ontario’s economy. Ford has called these measures unfair, even going as far as threatening to cut off power supply to the US in retaliation.
Trump’s tariffs have had a particularly harsh impact on the Canadian economy, leading to job losses and strained business relationships. This is the second time the US has suspended trade talks with Canada, following a similar incident earlier in the year when Canada proposed a digital services tax on US tech companies. After Canada backtracked on the tax, Trump claimed that Carney had "caved" to US pressure.
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