Trump says Canada could have to ‘just pay tariffs’ as trade talks continue

U.S. President Donald Trump signalled Friday that he may not reach a deal with Canada, suggesting the northern neighbour will “just pay tariffs.”

“We haven’t really had a lot of luck with Canada,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. “I think Canada could be one where they’ll just pay tariffs, not really a negotiation.”

Trump made the remarks while discussing other trade deals that had been reached with countries ahead of his Aug. 1 deadline.

The remarks come just a day after Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc told reporters he was feeling “encouraged” following meetings with both Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and American lawmakers.

However, LeBlanc had also suggested a new economic and security deal would not be signed before Aug. 1.

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“Canadians expect us to take the time necessary to get the best deal we can in the interest of Canadian workers,” LeBlanc said.

The offices of LeBlanc and Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne both declined to comment on Friday.

More to come.