U.S. Says 14-Month Canada Trade Talks Made Little Progress as CUSMA Negotiations Continue
Updated
Updated · CBC Sports · Jul 3
U.S. Says 14-Month Canada Trade Talks Made Little Progress as CUSMA Negotiations Continue
3 articles · Updated · CBC Sports · Jul 3
Summary
Pete Hoekstra said 14 months of Canada-U.S. trade talks have produced no significant progress, though Washington plans to keep negotiating through July and August.
The U.S. ambassador said the two sides still have "a ways to go" on trade irritants blocking a CUSMA renewal, with the pace and shape of talks ultimately set by Donald Trump and Mark Carney.
Wednesday's U.S. decision not to join Canada and Mexico in extending CUSMA did not end the pact, which remains in force for another 10 years with annual reviews unless Washington issues a six-month withdrawal notice.
Hoekstra argued the relationship remains predictable because 85% of bilateral trade under CUSMA is still tariff-free, while also saying the U.S. wants 3 million to 4 million more barrels of oil a day and could source them elsewhere if no Alberta deal emerges.