U.S. Trade Chief Says Canada Rejected Favorable Deal Before 50% Tariffs Took Effect

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer contended that Canada deliberately walked away from favorable trade terms to maintain protective barriers on American goods, following the breakdown of bilateral negotiations. Greer appeared on Fox & Friends Weekend to discuss the failed talks and the subsequent implementation of 50% tariffs affecting approximately $20 billion in Canadian imports.

The trade official outlined Washington’s negotiating posture, emphasizing efforts to reduce duties on goods sensitive to Canada’s economy, including steel, automobiles, and lumber. Greer characterized the rejected offer as superior to any agreement Canada could expect going forward, suggesting the country had ample incentive to accept the administration’s terms.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney halted trade discussions late Friday, claiming the United States had made unjust eleventh-hour modifications to its proposal. Carney simultaneously announced that Canada would implement matching retaliatory tariffs to shield domestic workers and businesses from American duties.

In his statement, Carney acknowledged that the U.S. relationship had fundamentally transformed and would not return to its previous structure. He framed Canada’s position as independent and resolute, asserting the nation possesses valuable commodities and would not permit external powers to dictate its economic future.

Greer indicated that no additional negotiations have been scheduled and expressed uncertainty about whether meaningful talks might resume. He noted that the administration plans to proceed with countermeasures responding to Canadian retaliation, naming Canada and China as the only two countries to retaliate against American trade policies under President Trump’s reshoring strategy.