Canadian Prime Minister Carney: US is Moving Closer to Our Trade Demands

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that there is some movement in the ongoing trade talks with the US, but this progress was made possible by the US moving closer to Canada's existing trade demands.

Speaking eight days before the US midterm elections, Carney emphasized that there has been no change in Canada's negotiating position. While White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett stated that the sides are close to an agreement, Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc's office reported that constructive dialogue with Washington continues.

In August, Canada rejected the terms presented by Washington on the grounds that they crossed 'red lines.' Following this, the US imposed a 50 percent tariff on approximately $20 billion worth of Canadian products, and Canada retaliated. President Trump announced on Friday that he would lift some tariffs and introduce duties on new products, and then claimed at a rally in Michigan that Canada is ready for a deal. Carney stated that he is not sure whether Trump will remain committed to a new trade agreement.