TORONTO - Prime Minister Mark Carney's cabinet is meeting today to discuss American tariffs and the upcoming review of the continental trade agreement. This two-day gathering in Toronto is being referred to as a "cabinet planning forum," a rebranding from the traditional term "cabinet retreat."

The meetings come just two weeks before the House of Commons reconvenes for the fall session and about a month before Carney's government is set to present its first federal budget. A significant portion of the discussions will focus on U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.

Recently, the cabinet approved a strategy to reduce Canada’s tariff retaliation. This decision aligns most Canadian tariffs with those of the U.S. by exempting goods covered under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement. The cabinet will also prepare for the review of this trade deal, which could start as early as this fall.

In addition to trade issues, the cabinet will address Canada’s efforts to strengthen its domestic defense industry, increase affordable housing, and combat crime. Although the discussions will take place behind closed doors, it is common for ministers to make announcements during these meetings to position themselves ahead of Parliament.

Next week, the Liberal caucus will hold additional planning meetings in Edmonton in preparation for Parliament's return on September 15.