U.S. Trade Rep Blames Canada for Collapse of Tariff Negotiations
Three days after failed U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that Canada was responsible for the breakdown in talks aimed at preventing new tariffs on Canadian goods. Greer told CNBC's 'Squawk Box' that Ottawa changed its demands at the last minute and sought more concessions than what had been previously agreed upon. The dispute began when Canada imposed trade barriers on U.S. products like alcohol, autos, and dairy in response to Trump-era tariffs. In retaliation, the U.S. announced 50% tariffs on about $20 billion of Canadian goods, which took effect at midnight ET last Saturday. Business groups from both countries have warned that these duties could raise costs for consumers and disrupt industries. Canada has responded with retaliatory 'dollar-for-dollar' tariffs against American imports. Greer defended the U.S. position by stating it had already made significant concessions during negotiations, including halving steel and aluminum tariffs and reducing auto tariffs.
Topics: free trade tariffs Trump administration U.S.-Canada trade