Some Canadian provinces refusing to back down on ban of US booze
Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s minister in charge of US-Canada trade, leaves after meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington, DC, on Aug 20, 2026. (Photo: AFP)
WASHINGTON - The United States and Canada were headed back to the negotiating table on Friday seeking a deal to end months of trade tensions before punishing new tariffs kick in at midnight.President Donald Trump threatened to impose new 50% duties on a range of Canadian products by Wednesday, but issued a last-minute stay, citing major progress in trade talks.
Canadian negotiators have been camped out in Washington this week trying to finalise a deal that reportedly aims to address a range of flashpoints.
Both sides have said a pact is nearly done, but talks were set to continue on Friday morning local time, with top Canadian negotiator Dominic LeBlanc expected at US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s office by midday, Ottawa said.
