Greer Takes Tough Stance Amid Canada-U.S. Tariff Talks

As Canada continues efforts to secure a tariff deal with the United States, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has issued a strong response.

Speaking to reporters in Des Moines, Iowa, on Friday, Greer said the proposed 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods are not a sudden decision. He said they are a response to retaliatory measures previously imposed by Canada against U.S. products.

Greer criticized Canada for imposing retaliatory tariffs rather than engaging directly with Washington, comparing the approach to the strategy used by countries such as China. He pointed to Canadian measures affecting U.S. automobiles, steel and dairy products, as well as the removal of American alcohol from provincial stores.

Greer warned that if President Donald Trump implements the new tariffs, the United States will not tolerate any retaliatory action from Canada.

However, he acknowledged that Canadian leaders appear to be taking a more conciliatory approach rather than seeking confrontation. He said the coming days will determine whether Canada and the U.S. can reach an agreement on the ongoing trade dispute.