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Canada-US Trade Relations and the Upcoming Election
Former Canadian ambassador David MacNaughton discusses the risks to Canadian trade posed by both Trump and Harris, and how Canada should respond.
English
Canada
PoliticsEconomyUs PoliticsTradeInternational TradeInternationalUsmca
Embassy Of Canada In WashingtonThe Associated PressThe Globe And MailLcboRepublican Party
David MacnaughtonDonald TrumpKamala HarrisBob LighthizerMitch Mcconnell
- Is this true whether Trump or Harris wins?
- Maintaining beneficial trade requires collaboration with the US on issues beyond trade such as security and defense. A "Fortress North America" approach and faster mineral extraction are suggested to secure Canada's trade interests.
- Who poses the bigger risk to Canadian trade, Mr. Trump or Ms. Harris?
- Both Trump's transactional approach and Harris's ideological protectionism pose risks. Trump's unpredictability and Harris's potential appeal to organized labor make predicting their actions difficult.
- What’s at stake for Canada’s economy in the upcoming U.S. election?
- Increased protectionism in both Democratic and Republican parties poses a significant risk to Canada's economy due to the substantial amount of Canadian exports to the US.
- Both Trump and Harris say they’ll reopen the USMCA when it comes up for review in 2026. What will they be looking for?
- The US might prioritize aligning with Canada on measures to counter China, such as restricting imports of steel, cars, and EVs. Failure to align could jeopardize Canada's trade relationships.
- I’ve heard people argue that Trump’s threats of 10- to 20-per-cent tariffs might be overblown because we’re covered by the USMCA. Does this downplay the risk?
- While the USMCA offers some protection, Trump's unpredictable use of tariffs remains a risk. The current political climate shows a decline in support for free trade, demanding a proactive Canadian response.