Canada says US trade talks have become "nasty" after Trump’s criticism

Justin Trudeau said Thursday that trade talks with the United States have become increasingly difficult after President Donald Trump labeled Canada’s leadership as “nasty” during a speech in Las Vegas. Trudeau emphasized that Canada remains engaged in the negotiations, describing them as a fight to protect Canadian jobs and businesses.

“This is a tough negotiation. You can say ‘nasty.’ But this is a question of Canadian jobs. It’s a question of the future of Canadian businesses,” Trudeau said in French.

Trump’s remarks were accompanied by a warning that the United States could raise tariffs on additional Canadian goods to 50% beginning Aug. 19, adding to existing duties on steel, aluminum and automobiles. The president argued that higher tariffs would encourage manufacturers to relocate to the United States, though economic data provide little support for that claim.

Trudeau noted that Canada is already involved in a tariff dispute with the United States and that Canadian negotiators are in Washington this week. He expects further discussions with Trump after a recent conversation.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has highlighted that Canada and China are the only countries that have taken retaliatory steps against U.S. tariffs, pointing to restrictions on U.S. alcohol sales in some Canadian provinces. Canadian officials say their measures are a response to the existing U.S. duties.

The tension follows earlier exchanges, including a January meeting in Davos where Trudeau warned against economic coercion, prompting Trump to reply, “Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements.”

Trudeau warned that existing U.S. aluminum tariffs have already driven a 58% rise in aluminum prices in the United States, a situation he said is unfavorable for American companies.