US and Canada say they are close to final trade deal

The United States and Canada are on the cusp of finalizing a significant trade agreement, following President Donald Trump's decision to pause the implementation of new, substantial tariffs on Canadian goods. Trump announced Wednesday that a deal had been reached, though it remains subject to the finalization of documents.

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We’ve come to a deal with Canada.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed a more measured outlook, stating that Ottawa and Washington were "now moving towards an agreement." The planned 50% U.S. tariffs, which were slated to begin Wednesday on select Canadian products like wine and hockey sticks, have been delayed by three days as negotiations continue. This pause allows both sides to work towards a conclusive deal.

Prime Minister Carney commended Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and U.S. lead negotiator Jamieson Greer for their "significant progress." LeBlanc met with Greer in Washington on Wednesday, reporting collaborative efforts toward a finalized agreement. Greer, the U.S. trade representative, conveyed confidence in a pact that will "strengthen the North American economy," acknowledging the resolution of past irritants and a positive path forward.

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We are now moving towards an agreement.

Details of the prospective agreement remain undisclosed. Trump indicated the deal would benefit U.S. farmers, who had raised concerns about access to Canadian markets. The White House had previously alleged "discriminatory treatment" by Canada against U.S. alcohol, automobile, and dairy products, which formed the basis for the proposed tariffs. Carney stated the deal aims to secure "the best terms in each of Canada's most important strategic sectors and (provides) greater certainty about our future trading relationship."

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We’ve certainly, I think, eliminated some of the irritants that we’ve had over the past year, and we are also taking a strong foot forward on the next steps.