Washington claims Canada has rejected trade deal offer

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has stated that Canada has rejected a trade deal offer from Washington, marking a significant setback in bilateral relations. Greer publicly criticised the decision, characterising it as a “missed opportunity” for Ottawa.

The announcement follows an intensive two-week negotiation period in Washington. Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc was present in the US capital for the duration, engaging in what was described as one of the longest sessions of the talks.

LeBlanc spent approximately eight hours in meetings with Greer, a duration that underscored the complexity of the discussions. Prior to the finalisation of the rejection, LeBlanc indicated to reporters that negotiators “have more work to do” as the talks approached a midnight deadline.

The specific terms of the rejected offer have not been detailed in available reporting. However, the move comes against a backdrop of shifting market expectations, with recent US stock movements driven by inflation data and corporate earnings.

Greer’s characterisation of the outcome as a “missed opportunity” provides a subjective but pointed assessment of the diplomatic failure. It remains unclear whether the rejection is final or if informal discussions will continue in the immediate aftermath of the deadline.

The development adds to the uncertainty surrounding North American trade dynamics, particularly as markets monitor the broader implications for supply chains and investment flows.