Trump strikes optimistic tone on Canada trade but offers no concessions

President Donald Trump expressed optimism about U.S.-Canada trade relations during a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney but stopped short of making any concessions on tariffs that have strained the $1.3 trillion trade relationship. The talks aimed to ease tensions caused by U.S. duties on steel, aluminum, and lumber.

Source Financial Times

Canada’s economy has taken a hit, with exports falling 7.5% in the second quarter as tariffs weigh heavily on cross-border industries. Trump acknowledged a “natural conflict” between the two nations due to overlapping economic interests but insisted he wanted Canada “to do great.”

Carney emphasized cooperation, saying Canada was ready to invest $1 trillion in the U.S. over the next five years. Despite cordial remarks, the meeting ended without concrete progress on lifting trade restrictions, leaving key issues unresolved.