The art of compromise or the trap of concession: how to revive a quality relationship between Canada and the United States?

This conference will be held in french

Faced with a US administration that is radically redefining the rules of the global economy—by imposing tariffs and calling established agreements into question—Canada and Quebec find themselves in a particularly complex position in their economic relations with the United States.

In recent weeks, Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada–US Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, and Michael Sabia, Clerk of the Privy Council, traveled to Washington to conduct crucial negotiations. According to Ottawa, sectoral agreements on steel, aluminum, and energy are in the process of being finalized. The automotive and lumber sectors are also part of the current discussions.

In this context of tension and great uncertainty, some are calling for a rapid renegotiation of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), scheduled for June 30, 2026. An early review could help ease trade tensions and restore some predictability. Others, however, warn against the risks of a hasty renegotiation that could result in concessions that are disadvantageous to Canada.

What are the risks and opportunities of each of these two approaches? Which strategy should Ottawa favor? What impacts would each have on Canadian businesses? Our guests will present and debate the scenarios facing Canada, with a focus on this fundamental question: how can we rebuild a strong relationship with the United States?