Trade Minister LeBlanc Concludes Washington Engagements Over CUSMA Sectoral Exemptions

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Minister of Public Safety and Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc, leading Canada's ministerial trade taskforce, concluded a marathon round of negotiations in Washington on Tuesday with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

Key Negotiating Pillars and Automotive Rules of Origin

The ministerial discussions focused on establishing binding compromise frameworks to resolve longstanding U.S. trade grievances regarding Canadian provincial alcohol markups, dairy tariff-rate quotas, and supply-chain regional value content standards for zero-emission electric vehicles under CUSMA.

LeBlanc confirmed that Canadian negotiators presented detailed proposals guaranteeing U.S. auto parts content minimums while demanding the elimination of Section 232 steel and aluminum tariff threats and a durable dispute-resolution mechanism for softwood lumber.

Provincial Consultation and Industry Stakes

Following the bilateral session, LeBlanc briefed provincial premiers and key industrial representatives from the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association and the Forest Products Association of Canada. While describing the progress as substantial, LeBlanc emphasized to reporters that technical language drafting remains active and "the job is not yet done."

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Quebec Premier François Legault voiced support for the federal team while insisting that provincial regulatory jurisdiction over natural resources and agriculture must remain fully protected.

Finalizing the Friday Accord

Technical working groups will convene continuous virtual sessions over the next 48 hours to finalize legal texts prior to the expiration of the 72-hour tariff pause on Friday at midnight.