Washington – Arab Canada News

As the date for announcing additional U.S. tariff rates approaches, President Donald Trump has classified Canada as one of the "friendly countries" of the United States – but temporarily – at a time when there is a prevailing sense of anticipation and caution within Canadian circles regarding the potential impact of upcoming trade decisions on the national economy.

In press statements, Trump said that "some countries, including Canada, are dealing fairly with the United States," emphasizing that these countries will not be targeted in the upcoming tariff phase, but he added:

"Everything is subject to review… If circumstances change, we will change our position."

New Deadline and Canadian Unease

The deadline set by the White House for announcing the next round of tariffs is approaching within weeks, amid speculations that some exemptions may be revoked or modified, prompting Canadian officials to intensify their diplomatic efforts to maintain Canada's position as a reliable trading ally.

Government sources in Ottawa confirmed that consultations with Washington are still ongoing, and that any change in the U.S. position could have direct repercussions on supply chains, particularly in the automotive and steel sectors.

A Double Message from Trump

Observers say that Trump's description of Canada as "friendly" comes at a time when the trade rhetoric towards other allied countries, especially the European Union and Japan, has escalated, which interprets the U.S. message as more of a veiled warning than a permanent reassurance.

The Automotive Industry in Danger

Canadian manufacturers fear that Canada could become a target at any moment, especially after the Trump administration has already imposed a 25% tariff on automotive imports, with a temporary exemption for Canada. This industry is one of the vital pillars of the Canadian economy and provides tens of thousands of jobs.

Canadian Calls for Unity in Stance

Federal officials and leaders from the industrial sector have called for a unified national stance to protect Canadian trade interests, amid calls to enhance economic independence and strengthen local manufacturing.