U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer warned on “Fox & Friends Weekend” that Canada turned down what he described as “the best deal” for both nations. After negotiations stalled, Washington has activated a new 50% tariff regime covering about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods.
Tariffs target steel, autos and lumber
Greer said the United States had offered to lower Canadian tariffs on sensitive products such as steel, automobiles and lumber in exchange for greater market access for American manufacturers. “Our interest is in protecting American workers and protecting American supply chains,” he said, adding that the proposed concessions would have helped Canadian producers while preserving U.S. jobs.
He noted that the United States is moving forward with the tariff measures despite the lack of further trade talks, stating, “We don’t have new talks planned with the Canadians. We’re moving forward with measures that respond to Canadian retaliation.” Greer also linked the action to President Trump’s broader trade policy aimed at reshoring American production.
Canada responds with matching tariffs
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Friday that Canada will match the U.S. tariffs “dollar for dollar” to protect Canadian workers and businesses. Carney said the decision reflects a recognition that “America has changed” and that Canada will not return to the previous trade relationship.
“We have recognised from the beginning that America has changed, and that we will not return to our old relationship,” Carney said. He added that Canada will set its own course to keep the country strong and will not allow any nation to dictate its future.
Uncertainty about future negotiations
Greer said it is “hard to say” whether trade talks will resume in the near future. He emphasized that the United States remains committed to protecting American jobs and supply chains, even as it faces retaliation from both Canada and the People’s Republic of China.
“Remember, as President Trump has introduced a trade policy to reshore American production and protect American jobs, two countries have retaliated against the United States, the People’s Republic of China and Canada,” Greer added.
Fox News contributor Michael Sinkewicz contributed to the report.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
