TORONTO – Tariffs and trade are at the forefront of discussions as the premiers of Canada convene in Ontario's Muskoka region for a significant three-day meeting. This meeting occurs at a crucial juncture for both Canadian-U.S. relations and domestic matters, with trade negotiations expected to intensify amid ongoing concerns regarding U.S. tariffs.
The premiers' meeting, which includes a scheduled session with Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday, is largely driven by the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs. The discussions are anticipated to cover various topics, including the tariffs' impact on industries such as steel and aluminum, efforts to dismantle interprovincial trade barriers, and the acceleration of infrastructure and natural resource projects to mitigate the tariffs' effects. Indigenous communities' concerns regarding these issues will also be addressed.
The opening day of the premiers' summit will feature discussions with Indigenous leaders from groups such as the Assembly of First Nations, the Métis National Council, and the Native Women’s Association of Canada. Prime Minister Carney has recently engaged with First Nations chiefs, many of whom are anxious about the acceleration of projects deemed to be in the "national interest" but feel their rights are being overlooked.
Among the prominent issues being advocated for by the premiers includes the development of pipelines and mining in Ontario's Ring of Fire region. Indigenous chiefs have emphasized the need for proper consultation before such projects proceed, insisting that their rights must be respected.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who has served as the head of the Council of the Federation for the past year and is hosting the meeting, underscored the importance of protecting national interests. “This meeting will be an opportunity to work together on how to respond to President Trump’s latest threat and how we can unleash the full potential of Canada’s economy,” Ford stated.
During the recent G7 summit, Trump and Carney had agreed to strive for a trade deal by July 21. However, Trump has since extended that deadline to August 1 and has indicated plans to impose a 35 percent tariff on Canada on that date. Carney is advocating for the inclusion of softwood lumber exports in the trade negotiations with the U.S.
British Columbia Premier David Eby intends to raise the importance of softwood lumber and other key issues for B.C. at the meeting, seeking equity in the amount of attention given to various sectors. Eby commented, “(We want to) get access to the same level of attention on the softwood lumber as Ontario gets on the auto parts sector.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has been a strong proponent of new pipelines as well. However, she also emphasized the need for collaboration among premiers in addressing tariff-related threats and advancing interprovincial trade.
Ford and Smith previously signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at facilitating the study of new pipelines and rail connections between provinces. Both premiers have expressed a desire for Carney to consider repealing certain energy regulations, including net-zero targets and a tanker ban on the West Coast.
Additionally, Ford has been a key player in promoting interprovincial trade, having signed agreements with multiple provinces and implementing laws to eliminate Ontario’s exceptions to free trade among provinces and territories. Nova Scotia’s Premier Tim Houston has echoed the need for fostering interprovincial connections to respond effectively to economic pressures from the U.S.
Ford has indicated that discussions will also cover topics such as emergency management, energy security, sovereignty and national security, health, and public safety. The premiers have been advocating for federal bail law reforms, and Carney has announced that relevant legislation is expected to be introduced this fall for discussion during the meeting.
This summer gathering not only addresses pressing trade issues but also marks a transition in leadership roles within the Council of the Federation. After this meeting, Ford is expected to continue being influential on key issues given Ontario's significant population and his existing relationship with Carney.
Having effectively utilized his media presence and political network, Ford has earned the nickname “Captain Canada”, which he leveraged during his re-election campaign focusing on countering tariffs and enhancing trade relations. His approach successfully resonated with voters, resulting in a third consecutive majority for his government.
