Prime Minister Mark Carney has reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to protecting its workers and businesses as the country faces a looming trade deadline with the United States. This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a revised 35% tariff on Canadian goods, with the new measures expected to take effect by August 1, 2025.

Speaking about the matter via his X account (Formerly Twitter), Carney assured Canadians that the federal government remains steadfast in its position. “Throughout the current trade negotiations with the United States, the Canadian government has steadfastly defended our workers and businesses,” he said. “We will continue to do so as we work towards the revised deadline of August 1.”

The proposed tariff increase has stirred concerns across Canada’s economic and political landscape, with fears that key sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture could suffer serious consequences. However, Carney expressed confidence in Canada’s ability to navigate the challenges ahead.

Beyond trade, the Prime Minister also touched on Canada’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis, which continues to affect communities across North America. “Canada has made vital progress to stop the scourge of fentanyl in North America,” Carney noted. “We are committed to continuing to work with the United States to save lives and protect communities in both our countries.”

Carney highlighted ongoing collaboration with American counterparts, emphasizing that cross-border cooperation remains essential, even as tensions rise on trade fronts. Despite the tariff dispute, the Prime Minister presented a hopeful outlook on Canada’s long-term economic direction. “We are building Canada strong,” he declared. “The federal government, provinces, and territories are making significant progress in building one Canadian economy.”

He also revealed plans for large-scale national infrastructure projects aimed at boosting growth and enhancing Canada’s competitiveness on the global stage. “We are poised to build a series of major new projects in the national interest,” he said. “We are strengthening our trading partnerships throughout the world.”

Carney’s message comes at a critical time as Canada looks to balance defending national interests while preserving its crucial relationship with the United States.

As the August 1 deadline approaches, attention now turns to how negotiations will unfold and what measures Canada may adopt in response to the threatened tariff hike.