White House Says U.S.-Canada Trade Talks 'Very Close' to Deal Amid Tariff Shifts
White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett described U.S.-Canada trade negotiations as nearing a deal, citing increased engagement between Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Canadian Minister Dominic LeBlanc. However, anonymous U.S. officials cautioned that prospects remain unclear over disagreements on Canada's offers. The talks coincide with tariff modifications benefiting Maine businesses ahead of midterm elections.
White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett stated that U.S.-Canada trade negotiations have picked up and are gathering steam, describing the talks as being very close to finally having a deal. According to Hassett, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has been talking to his Canadian counterparts all week, and discussions between Lutnick and Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s minister responsible for U.S. negotiations, have intensified in recent weeks.
Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the trade talks on Wednesday. Carney stated he is ready to sit down and negotiate when the U.S. is, provided the deal is in the interests of Canadians. President Trump told Detroit’s Fox 2 channel that they are getting close to a deal that could be good for everybody, adding that he expects an agreement in probably a couple of months, potentially before the actual election.
Despite the optimism from Hassett and Trump, an anonymous U.S. official stated that prospects remain unclear because the U.S. does not believe Canada is offering enough yet.
The negotiations follow several tariff adjustments by the White House aimed at benefiting Maine businesses and supporting Senator Susan Collins’ reelection campaign. The U.S. removed 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian plywood, bleached paper, cartons, and specialized agricultural machinery. Senator Collins announced the tariff removals on Friday, stating it helps Maine’s rural and coastal economy. Last month, Trump also exempted road salt and other products from tariffs following a request from Collins. In response to earlier trade actions, Canada amended its own retaliatory duties to remove seafood products.
Democratic candidate Troy Jackson criticized Collins, claiming she only acted because she is at risk of losing her seat. Trade talks continue to influence political dynamics in border states like Michigan during the midterm elections.
Hassett said helping Maine and Alaska fisheries has been almost above everything else done at the National Economic Council. Related efforts include the U.S. Department of Agriculture creating its first-ever Office of Seafood in April, and the administration unveiling a broader America First Seafood Strategy on Friday.