Premiers rally behind Carney but doubt quick U.S. tariff deal as August 19 deadline looms
Washington has threatened 50 percent tariffs on billions in Canadian goods in retaliation for trade disagreements on autos, dairy, and alcohol.
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Canada's premiers say they're backing the federal government's push to talk down U.S. President Donald Trump from his latest tariff escalation, but optimism is mixed as an August 19 deadline approaches.
Washington announced Thursday that it will impose 50 percent tariffs on billions of dollars of Canadian imports, citing retaliation for what it sees as Canada's own trade actions and discrimination against American motor vehicles, dairy, and alcohol. The move blindsided the premiers' annual summer meeting in Charlottetown on Monday.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he feels "positive and bullish" about reaching a short-term agreement, but added, "However, I'm not entirely confident that we will." Alberta Premier Danielle Smith sounded more hopeful. "I remain as bullish and hopefully more optimistic than Premier Moe that we can actually get a deal before the month is up," she said.
Prime Minister Mark Carney is meeting with the premiers Thursday in Charlottetown. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Wednesday he hoped to land interim agreements with Canada and Mexico this year but suggested the main trade irritants won't be resolved until 2027.
Despite arriving at the meetings from different political stripes, the premiers were unanimous that they oppose the new tariffs and want all existing tariffs dropped. The 28-day window ahead is crucial.
By the numbers
When does the U.S. tariff deadline fall?
August 19, 2026. Washington announced Thursday that it will impose 50 percent tariffs on billions of dollars of Canadian imports on that date.
What products are targeted by the threatened U.S. tariffs?
Motor vehicles, dairy, and alcohol. Washington cited these goods as areas where it believes Canada has taken discriminatory trade actions.
