Prime Minister Mark Carney has met with business leaders from several sectors to discuss Canada’s trade relationship with the United States, as Canadian companies continue to navigate uncertainty caused by tariffs and strained cross-border negotiations.
The meeting, held in Ottawa, brought together representatives from 23 companies, including RBC, Enbridge, Bell Canada, Bombardier, CN Rail, Suncor and Nutrien. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, participants discussed recent developments in Canada-U.S. trade and the federal government’s priorities for encouraging economic growth and investment in Canada.
Business leaders were also invited to share perspectives from their respective industries, giving the government an opportunity to hear directly from companies affected by changing trade conditions.
The discussions come after Ottawa suspended trade negotiations with Washington in August following disagreements over proposed U.S. trade terms. Carney said at the time that the government’s objectives included securing greater stability for Canadian businesses and reducing U.S. tariffs on key Canadian industries.
The Canadian government has also moved to strengthen the domestic economy and diversify export markets as part of its response to the trade dispute. Carney has emphasized that Canada should reduce its vulnerability to changes in U.S. trade policy while continuing to pursue a workable commercial relationship with its largest trading partner.
The latest meeting also comes as Canadian businesses face the practical effects of tariffs, including higher costs, supply-chain uncertainty and potential disruptions to cross-border commerce.
Industries such as energy, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation and financial services have significant interests in Canada-U.S. trade, making continued communication between Ottawa and the business community important as the dispute evolves.
The government says its broader economic strategy includes encouraging investment, expanding export opportunities and strengthening Canada’s domestic capacity.
Carney’s meeting with business leaders underscores the federal government’s effort to coordinate with the private sector while Canada seeks to manage the economic consequences of the ongoing trade conflict with the United States.
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