Canada-U.S. Trade Deal Unlikely Before November Midterm Elections

The chances of Canada and the United States reaching a trade deal before the U.S. midterm elections on November 3 have effectively faded. Canadian government officials have reportedly told industry groups in recent weeks that no resolution is expected before the elections, as the White House remains focused on campaigning.

Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc also confirmed in an interview that the federal government is not expecting a deal before the midterms. However, he said he remains in regular contact with his U.S. counterpart and assured that Canada will continue exploring opportunities for an agreement, provided it serves the interests of the Canadian economy.

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said Washington is not engaged in a trade war with Ottawa but is negotiating over certain tariffs. He also maintained that relations between the two countries have not deteriorated.