Trump's trade rep sounds pessimistic about deal with Canada, saying issues are 'quite difficult to resolve'
U.S. trade representative Greer expressed pessimism regarding a potential trade deal with Canada, citing fundamental disagreements over industrial tariffs. While Canada argues the tariffs harm integrated economies, the U.S. maintains its policy is necessary to boost domestic manufacturing.
Why it matters
The ongoing trade friction between the U.S. and Canada threatens to disrupt deeply integrated supply chains and key industrial sectors like steel and automotive manufacturing.
Speaking to reporters at the G20 meeting of trade ministers in Milwaukee, Greer sounded pessimistic about the prospect of a deal with the Canadians saying while "technical talks" are ongoing between trade experts from both countries there are some fundamental disagreements.
"The reality is there are a handful of outstanding issues that are quite difficult to resolve," Greer said.
Greer said the Trump administration's policy of imposing tariffs on foreign manufactured goods to try to "reindustrialize" America is a universal one and not "focused on one country."
Trump says 'very bad' Canada is being 'taught a little lesson' as trade action escalates
Canada, meanwhile, maintains that punishing tariffs on industrial products like steel, aluminum and autos make no sense given just how integrated the two economies are after decades of free trade.
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