As the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Free Trade Agreement (CUSMA) review looms, Prime Minister Mark Carney is taking a crucial step towards unity. He's meeting with Canada's premiers in Ottawa, a gathering that couldn't be more timely given the ongoing trade war and the approaching renewal of CUSMA.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt are calling for a united front, a "Team Canada" approach, as they head into these critical trade negotiations. Ford believes it's not just the Prime Minister's job to promote Canada but also the provinces' responsibility. Holt agrees, acknowledging the fundamental shift in Canada's relationship with the U.S.
"We're no longer on the same page with our longtime friends and trading partners," Holt stated, echoing Carney's sentiments.
However, despite this unified rhetoric, provinces have their own issues to address. For instance, Ontario's decision to remove Crown Royal whisky, bottled in Manitoba, from liquor store shelves has raised eyebrows. When asked about this, Ford described Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew as "a pal."
And this is the part most people miss...
The eyes of the nation will also be on B.C. Premier David Eby and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who have differing views on a proposed pipeline from Alberta to the coast of B.C.
Ford, true to his word, reiterated his concerns about Canada's deal with China, which would allow a significant number of electric vehicles into the Canadian market annually. He stands firm on his belief that these vehicles are potential "spy vehicles."
In a recent statement, Carney confirmed that Canada's internal review process for CUSMA is complete. He expressed optimism about the renewal, citing good conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump.
"There's a lot of work ahead for the CUSMA review, and it's already underway in the U.S. and Mexico. Canada's part is done," Carney said before the Liberal caucus meeting.
Canada is now ready to engage with both the U.S. and Mexico, a crucial step in the process.
The scheduled review of CUSMA officially began in September 2025, and in December, Carney's office announced that trade discussions with the U.S. on the renewal would commence in January.
As the process unfolds, will Canada's premiers and the Prime Minister maintain their "Team Canada" approach? And what impact will the ongoing trade war have on these negotiations? These are questions that will shape Canada's economic future.
What do you think? Is a united front the best strategy for Canada in these challenging times? Share your thoughts in the comments!
