Prime Minister Mark Carney chaired a virtual First Ministers’ Meeting on August 22, 2026, to address the suspension of trade negotiations with the United States, outlining immediate next steps to safeguard Canadian interests.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Carney announced that dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs would come into force the Tuesday after Labour Day. He also indicated that additional measures to support Canadian workers and businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs would be detailed in the coming days. Carney underscored the strength derived from governmental unity, emphasizing the continued collaboration with provincial and territorial governments through a "Team Canada" approach, which he said has been crucial since the onset of the trade war.
The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s commitment to working together to accelerate nation-building projects, diversify export markets, and foster a unified Canadian economy by removing internal trade barriers.