Canada‑U.S. trade talks intensify as deadline for 50% tariffs approaches

Trade officials from Canada and the United States are meeting in Washington to try to avert a 50 percent tariff that could take effect on Saturday on about $20 billion of Canadian exports. Negotiators say they have made progress but still need to resolve issues such as the U.S. alcohol ban that several provinces have imposed, which American winemakers say is costing them millions. The United States has indicated a willingness to cut existing steel and aluminium duties. Both sides are working against a fast‑approaching deadline to avoid the new tariffs.