Carney reports progress in renewed Canada–U.S. trade negotiations

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada and the United States have entered a more intensive phase of trade negotiations, signalling progress toward a possible agreement following months of escalating tariffs and economic tensions.

Speaking to reporters Tuesday during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, Carney said discussions had accelerated following his recent telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to the prime minister, Washington has backed away from several proposals that Ottawa previously considered unacceptable, particularly those affecting Canadian cultural protections, the French language and Canada’s sovereign authority to negotiate trade agreements with other countries.

The renewed discussions follow the breakdown of formal negotiations in August, when Canada rejected proposed American terms shortly before additional U.S. tariffs took effect.

Carney indicated that the United States is now making fewer demands while offering more concessions, although significant disagreements remain unresolved.

Trump has also expressed optimism that a bilateral trade agreement could be concluded soon, particularly concerning agricultural trade and other cross-border economic issues.

The negotiations carry considerable importance for Canada’s automotive, steel, aluminum and manufacturing sectors, which have faced disruptions from American tariffs and continuing uncertainty.

Despite the more positive diplomatic atmosphere, Ottawa has not announced a timetable for a final agreement, and both governments remain engaged in discussions over outstanding trade restrictions.