US, Canada Talks Stall as Tariff Deadline Nears With Deal Unlikely

President Donald Trump’s administration is downplaying expectations for a last-minute deal with Canada to avert fresh tariffs set to take effect Wednesday, people familiar with the matter said.

Washington political analyst Eric Ham breaks down the crucial economic stakes, core sticking points, and growing political pushback in the U.S. ahead of the Aug. 19 deadline for Canada to avoid $20 billion in sweeping new tariffs.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump spoke Monday as negotiators remain in Washington, with auto tariffs emerging as a key sticking point

Carney spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump by phone on Monday

The 5,525-mile U.S.-Canada border remains undefended, with nearly 330,000 people and $2 billion in commerce crossing daily, while 800,000 Canadians live in the US

Mark Carney will need to sell Canadians on any concessions made to the US as negotiators scramble to reach a deal to avoid Trump’s latest tariffs.

New 50% import taxes could hit liquor, hockey gear and wood products like particle board.