Washington – President Donald Trump’s comments suggesting Canada could become the 51st state to avoid tariffs have infuriated Canadians, leading to a significant decline in travel to the United States. Data from Canada’s national statistical office reveals a 23% drop in Canadian visits to the U.S. in the first seven months of this year compared to the same period in 2024.
Speaking with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office, Trump acknowledged Canadians’ frustration, saying, “I understand that. Look, I understand that”. He expressed optimism about resolving trade issues, predicting Canadians would resume U.S. travel post-deal. “The people of Canada, they will love us again,” Trump stated, adding there’s “still great love between the two countries”.
Carney, seeking relief on sector-specific tariffs like 50% levies on steel and aluminum imports under U.S. Section 232 tariffs, described talks as “successful” and “positive”. Canada aims for swift resolution on these tariffs, crucial given over three-quarters of its exports go to the U.S., making the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) vital to its economy.
Trump indicated flexibility on trade, open to renegotiating USMCA or exploring “different deals” benefiting individual nations. “We could renegotiate it, and that would be good, or we can just do different deals,” he said. Carney countered Trump’s notion of “natural conflict,” emphasizing collaborative opportunities.
Former Canadian ambassador Frank McKenna lamented relations are at their lowest ebb. “I’ve seen ups and downs, but this is the lowest point in relations I can recall,” McKenna said, noting citizens and businesses adjust plans amid tensions. “There is an outright rebellion”.
