The top trade official of U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Canadian leaders for labeling the administration’s tariffs as a trade war against Canada. Jamieson Greer, in an interview with the Financial Times, played down the impact of the recently imposed 50% U.S. tariffs on the Canadian economy and rebuked Prime Minister Mark Carney for his portrayal of the trade dispute.
Greer emphasized that only 5% of Canada’s exports to the U.S. are affected by the tariffs that came into effect in August. He expressed his disapproval of the rhetoric surrounding the trade issue, stating that terms like “war” and “economic attacks” are exaggerated and unwarranted.
The podcast featuring Greer was released before Canada retaliated with tariffs, prompting the U.S. to announce a ban on Canadian alcohol, motorcycles, and certain food products starting on September 29. Greer’s office later reiterated his comments through a news release, emphasizing that tariffs are simply additional fees on foreign goods made abroad.
During the interview, Greer mentioned presenting response options to Trump regarding Canada’s retaliatory tariffs, indicating the potential for further actions. Trump subsequently announced the import ban, restrictions on Canadian goods subject to the 50% tariff, and ineligibility of Canadian companies for a U.S. government procurement program.
Describing the measures as a “natural consequence” of Canada’s actions, Greer stated that Canada’s retaliatory approach led to the current situation. He criticized Canada’s treatment of American exports and defended the U.S.’s actions as a response to discriminatory practices.
Greer’s stance echoes that of other Trump administration officials who reject the notion of a trade war with Canada. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously dismissed the idea of a trade war with Canada, emphasizing that there is no such conflict between the two countries.