Web: Uncertainty Looms as U.S. Tariff Deadline Approaches

OTTAWA – With just over a week remaining before the expiration of a U.S.-imposed reprieve from steep tariffs on Canadian goods, uncertainty is mounting over whether Canada’s efforts to meet President Donald Trump’s demands will be enough to avoid economic penalties.

In the past month, Ottawa has taken steps to address concerns raised by the White House, including increased border security, new measures to curb the flow of fentanyl, and the appointment of an official Drug Czar. However, with Trump’s economic policies often described as erratic and unpredictable, Canadian officials remain unsure whether the U.S. president will impose new conditions or move ahead with tariffs despite compliance.

The uncertainty is rattling financial markets. On Friday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell more than 1,000 points, while the Nasdaq dropped over 2 percent as investors braced for potential disruptions. South of the border, economists are increasingly warning that Trump’s trade policies are causing economic volatility that could trigger a deep and prolonged recession.

“ith the tariff deadline fast approaching, Canadian officials are closely watching for any signals from Washington, though many fear that even meeting Trump’s demands may not be enough to avoid economic fallout.