Carney, Trump Set Stage for Post-Election Trade Talks Amid Tariff Threat
OTTAWA – Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke with U.S. President Donald J. Trump on Friday as tensions rise over impending American trade actions targeting Canadian industries. The call, described by the Prime Minister’s Office as “very constructive,” sets the groundwork for broader economic and security negotiations following Canada’s upcoming federal election.
Both leaders agreed that comprehensive talks will begin immediately after the election. In the interim, Canada’s Minister of International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc, will hold intensified discussions with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to address urgent bilateral issues.
After I spoke with President Trump this morning, Minister LeBlanc and I discussed the current trade crisis with the premiers. We are all focused on fighting U.S. tariffs, protecting Canadian workers, and building one strong Canadian economy. pic.twitter.com/BYVvfekytA
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 28, 2025
Carney informed Trump that Canada will respond with retaliatory tariffs following the U.S. announcement of new trade measures, expected on April 2. The planned American tariffs are believed to target Canadian imports, including automobiles and auto-parts.
“The Prime Minister told the President that he would be working hard for the next month to earn the right to represent Canada in those discussions,” the readout noted, underscoring the high political stakes tied to the federal campaign.
The federal government is preparing its response amid concerns over potential economic impacts on Canadian workers and manufacturers, particularly in regions dependent on cross-border trade.
