Carney Cabinet Meets in Toronto to Set Fall Agenda, Address US Tariffs

Prime Minister Mark Carney is convening a two-day cabinet planning forum in Toronto to prepare for a busy fall parliamentary session amid escalating trade tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump. Key agenda items include managing the ongoing tariff dispute with the U.S., fast-tracking major infrastructure projects, expanding Canada’s domestic defence industry, building affordable housing, and supporting sectors most affected by U.S. tariffs. The government is also preparing for the upcoming 2026 review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), with hopes to negotiate favorable terms despite the unpredictable U.S. trade policies. Carney’s first federal budget, expected in October, will prioritize defence spending to meet NATO targets while balancing fiscal discipline. The meetings mark Carney’s second cabinet retreat since the spring election and the first with his new chief of staff and principal secretary, with limited media access allowed this time. The Liberal caucus will also hold planning sessions ahead of Parliament's return on September 15.