Canada Signals Openness to Restart Trade Talks With U.S., Says PM Carney

Canada is prepared to resume trade discussions with the United States “when it’s appropriate,” Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Sunday, emphasizing that there is currently no urgent matter requiring immediate talks with President Donald Trump. His comments come after Trump suspended the negotiations last month in response to an anti-tariff advertisement released by Ontario’s provincial government.

Speaking to reporters during the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, Carney noted that Canada’s priority remains strengthening its economic future and building new international partnerships. He added that conversations with the U.S. president are likely “in the next two weeks,” but the timing will depend on when both sides see value in re-engaging.

Carney reaffirmed his willingness to maintain open communication, stressing that Canada is not closing the door on renewed dialogue. “I don’t have a burning issue to speak with the president about right now,” he said. “When America wants to come back and have the discussions on the trade side, we will have those discussions.”

Canada continues to seek relief from U.S.-imposed tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles—key sectors that have felt significant pressure under the current trade measures. A potential agreement to ease these import duties remains a top priority for Ottawa as it aims to protect Canadian industries and support cross-border trade.

While diplomatic tensions briefly intensified following the advertisement controversy, the Canadian government maintains that cooperation with the United States remains essential. Carney’s remarks signal a balanced approach, demonstrating both readiness for constructive dialogue and confidence in Canada’s broader economic strategy.

As North American trade dynamics evolve, renewed negotiations could play an important role in stabilizing supply chains and strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Canada’s stance suggests that when the U.S. is prepared to return to the table, discussions will resume with a focus on lowering tariffs and improving bilateral trade relations.