Prime Minister Mark Carney's government is facing challenges in trade negotiations with the United States, particularly regarding tariffs that are impacting Canada. During a discussion at the Banff Forum in Quebec City, former U.S. diplomat Louise Blaise and former trade minister Ed Fast highlighted the difficulties Ottawa has encountered in its dealings with the Trump administration.

Blaise and Fast pointed out that the Canadian government has missed key opportunities to strengthen its position in trade talks. They criticized the administration for failing to leverage its advantages effectively and for creating unnecessary tensions with the U.S. through anti-American rhetoric and other irritants.

One recent point of contention was Canada's declaration regarding Palestine, which they described as gratuitous and unhelpful in the context of trade relations. As negotiations for the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement approach, Blaise and Fast emphasized the need for Ottawa to change its strategy to avoid further deterioration of relations.

The discussion, recorded on October 17, 2025, underscores the urgency for Canada to reassess its approach to trade with the U.S. to mitigate the impact of ongoing tariffs and to foster a more constructive dialogue with its southern neighbor.