Carney announced the suspension after the U.S. introduced last-minute terms Canada deemed unacceptable, leading to 50% U.S. tariffs on $28 billion of Canadian goods starting midnight. Canada vowed dollar-for-dollar retaliation effective the Tuesday after Labour Day to shield its workers and businesses.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer countered that Canada backed out of earlier agreed terms and added new demands, despite offers of favorable market access including tariff cuts on steel, autos, and lumber.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford rallied behind Carney, urging a united front as both nations brace for higher costs in their vital trade ties.