Canada's trade chief returns to Washington as U.S. tariff deadline looms

Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s trade minister, flew to Washington on Tuesday for a series of talks with U.S. senators and key industry figures as the United States prepares to impose 50% tariffs on roughly five percent of Canadian exports. The deadline for the new duties is set for August 19, and the measures would affect products ranging from alcoholic beverages to hockey equipment and cement. LeBlanc’s itinerary may include another meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, following a comprehensive dialogue the week before.

He will also debrief with Canada’s negotiating team, including chief trade negotiator Janice Charette. The tariffs, which Greer says are “very tailored,” respond to Canadian actions that impact U.S. alcohol, dairy and automotive sectors. Earlier, Prime Minister Mark Carney said he had spoken with President Donald Trump about intensifying trade negotiations, and labor groups have urged the U.S. to pause the planned levies.