Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has stated that the "broader trade relationship" between Canada and the United States was not the primary focus of her recent discussions with U. S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. Anand clarified that both she and Rubio are aware that trade matters are handled by other ministers in their respective governments.
Anand's comments came during an interview with CTV News, following a critical minerals meeting hosted by Rubio in Washington. When asked if Rubio had given assurances regarding the continuation of the Canada-U. S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), Anand indicated that the trade file rests with other ministers. Specifically, Dominic LeBlanc is the Minister responsible for Canada-U. S. Trade.
Despite downplaying broader trade discussions, Anand acknowledged the importance of the Canada-U. S. relationship, particularly in critical mineral supply chains. She noted that both countries are actively engaged in building conversations around this issue. The meeting in Washington occurred amidst growing discussions and some uncertainty regarding the future of CUSMA and trade relations between the two countries. The current agreement is up for review in 2026.
Canada and the U. S. share one of the largest trading relationships in the world. In 2023, trade in goods and services between the two nations totaled $916 billion, with the U. S. importing $476 billion from Canada and exporting $440 billion. Canada has been among the top two trading partners for the United States.
