Carney rejects using Canada's resources as trade leverage with U.S.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has dismissed the idea of using Canada’s energy and mineral resources as bargaining chips in trade negotiations with the U.S. His comments came during an interview with The Canadian Press, published on May 1, 2026. This marks his first major interview since entering federal politics over a year ago. Carney stressed that Canada has no plans to halt existing trade flows, so he does not view these resources as 'leverage.' His stance contrasts with earlier warnings from U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who had cautioned against such tactics in discussions.

In the same interview, Carney praised the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), calling it a durable deal. He predicted that much of its framework would remain intact during renewal talks. He also credited former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for securing the agreement during Donald Trump’s first term, defending Trudeau’s trade record and approach to U.S. relations. The prime minister’s remarks signal a continued commitment to stable trade relations with the U.S. His defence of CUSMA and Trudeau’s negotiations underscores the government’s position on maintaining existing agreements. The interview highlights Canada’s strategy as it prepares for future trade discussions.