US-Canada Tariff Talks Stall Amid Retaliation Threats, G7 Focus

U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney are engaged in tense negotiations over a new economic deal, with Trump insisting that tariffs remain a key component, a stance strongly opposed by Canada. While Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement within weeks during the G7 summit in Alberta, Canadian officials, including Trade Ambassador Kirsten Hillman, emphasize the need for tariff-free exports and remain cautious as talks continue without a clear resolution. The tariffs, particularly on steel, aluminum, and auto exports, have strained the U.S.-Canada relationship and are impacting industries such as Massachusetts' life sciences sector, which relies on cross-border supply chains. Regional leaders from the Northeastern U.S. and Canadian provinces voiced concerns that tariffs are harming economic competitiveness and jobs, highlighting the broader negative effects on bilateral trade. Additionally, the U.S. is navigating complex trade discussions with the European Union and China, while maintaining and potentially escalating tariffs on Canadian imports. Despite some progress, the ongoing tariff dispute remains a significant obstacle to finalizing a new economic and security partnership between the two nations.