Sectoral tariffs, not CUSMA, ‘focus’ of trade talks: Canadian envoy to U.S. (opens original article in a new tab)

Canadian trade officials prioritize addressing U.S. sectoral tariffs over CUSMA negotiations, as these tariffs impact key industries and remain in place despite trade agreement terms. The CUSMA renewal deadline is not an immediate crisis but a process to extend the agreement.

• Canadian ambassador says sectoral tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles are more urgent than CUSMA in trade talks
• Sectoral tariffs under U.S. Section 232 are impacting Canadian economy and are outside CUSMA agreement
• U.S. lowers some tariffs on steel and aluminum derivatives but sectoral tariffs remain painful for Canadian sectors
• CUSMA renewal deadline is not a 'cliff' but a process to extend agreement beyond 2036