Carney says Canada ready to intensify trade talks after new US tariffs

Canadian PM Mark Carney said Canada is ready to intensify CUSMA talks after the US announced a new 50% tariff on a significant number of Canadian goods, the latest in a series of unilateral US trade actions Ottawa says breach the agreement. The Canadian dollar softened modestly on the news earlir, extending a period of currency weakness tied to the broader tariff standoff with Washington. Carney's measured tone, emphasising continued willingness to negotiate rather than immediate retaliation, may limit further downside for now, though markets will be watching closely for any sign Ottawa moves to match the new duties as it has done with previous US measures. The reference to more than 20 new economic and security partnerships signed by Canada's government is likely intended to reassure investors that Ottawa has options beyond the US relationship, even as the core CUSMA dispute remains unresolved.