Trump Ends Trade Talks with Canada Over Controversial Reagan Ad

WASHINGTON, Oct 23 (Reuters) – U.S. President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he is terminating all trade negotiations with Canada. This decision follows the release of an advertisement by the Ontario provincial government that features former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs.

Trump’s response was prompted by the ad, which he labeled as fraudulent and misleading. He stated on Truth Social, “Based on their egregious behavior, ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.” The president claimed the ad misrepresents a radio address Reagan gave in April 1987, in which he discussed tariffs.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford acknowledged that the ad, funded by the Ontario government with a budget of $75 million, caught Trump’s attention. The advertisement features Reagan saying that imposing tariffs may seem patriotic but ultimately harms American workers and consumers in the long run.

Ford stated earlier this week, “I heard that the president heard our ad. I’m sure he wasn’t too happy.” He has voiced support for Reagan throughout this campaign and intends to convey this anti-tariff message across Republican districts in the U.S.

Trump has made tariffs a cornerstone of his administration’s trade policy, with the current tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum reaching their highest levels since the 1930s. His administration has also implemented a 35% import duty on Canadian items, with some exemptions under the USMCA, the free trade agreement negotiated with Canada and Mexico.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to Trump’s announcement by stating that Canada will not allow any unfair access to its markets without fair trade negotiations. The U.S. and Canada have been in discussions about potential agreements on the steel and aluminum sectors.

As the situation develops, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico are scheduled to review their 2020 continental free-trade agreement next year.