Modern Commons Party Statement on Carney’s Removal of Reciprocal Tariffs

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement that Canada will remove a broad set of reciprocal tariffs on American goods is the latest in a string of concessions aimed at placating the U.S. administration. While tariffs on automobiles, steel, and aluminum remain, this rollback risks giving away leverage without bringing home anything concrete for Canadian workers and businesses.

The Modern Commons Party understands that diplomacy is not about keeping your elbows up at every moment. At times, a strategic show of good faith can move negotiations forward. But lowering your guard must come with real gains. The Carney government has already walked back the digital services tax, a decision we opposed, on the grounds that it demonstrated goodwill toward Washington. Now, the removal of countertariffs marks a second major concession, again without securing serious commitments in return.

The Liberals should not unilaterally treat Canadian trade interests as bargaining chips to be given away lightly. Instead:

1. Tie every concession to a concession in return.
   If Canada lowers tariffs, it must be matched by a U.S. rollback—particularly in steel, aluminum, and agriculture, where Canadian workers remain vulnerable.

2. Maintain leverage until binding agreements are secured.
   Good faith cannot be a one-way street. Until Washington puts commitments in writing, Canada should keep tools like targeted tariffs in place.

3. Protect key industries first.
   Trade policy must start from the perspective of Canadian workers and businesses, not the optics of appearing cooperative in Washington.

4. Be transparent with Canadians.
   Trade negotiations should not be shrouded in vague language about “progress.” Canadians deserve clarity on what has been traded away and what has been gained.

“Diplomacy is about balance. But under Carney, that balance has tipped into appeasement. We’ve already reversed the digital services tax and now we’re lifting retaliatory tariffs—without a single binding concession from the U.S. You don’t give up leverage for free. When Canada lowers its elbows, it should be because we’ve brought something real back for Canadians. Otherwise, it’s not strategy—it’s surrender.” ~ Jack Henry, Leader, Modern Commons Party of Canada

Canada cannot afford a pattern of retreat in the face of U.S. pressure. The Modern Commons Party calls on the government to:

• Secure enforceable U.S. commitments before removing further tariffs.

• Prioritize Canadian jobs and industries in every round of negotiation.

• Make future trade decisions based on reciprocity, not optics.

Canada’s relationship with the United States is vital, but it must be rooted in fairness and mutual respect. The Modern Commons Party will always defend that principle—not just in words, but in how we negotiate and what we are willing to give.