Prime Minister Mark Carney landed in Malaysia on Saturday to explore trade opportunities with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). There is speculation about whether he will have a chance to meet U.S. President Donald Trump, who is also expected to attend the same event on Sunday.
Trump abruptly called off trade discussions with Canada following his displeasure with an Ontario government advertisement featuring pro-free trade comments by former President Ronald Reagan. He labeled the ad as “FAKE” and declared an end to all trade talks with Canada.
In response, Ontario Premier Doug Ford halted the ad in hopes of restarting negotiations on Monday. However, the Prime Minister’s Office stated that there was no clarity on when or if discussions would resume.
Before departing Ottawa for Kuala Lumpur, Carney downplayed the president’s reaction, emphasizing progress made in specific sectors like steel, aluminum, and energy. He expressed readiness to continue building on this progress for the benefit of workers and families in both countries.
Despite uncertainties, the focus is now on advancing the Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement for potential signing next year. The aim is to provide Canadian exporters with increased access to the rapidly growing economies within the ASEAN region and strengthen partnerships.
While Trump has indicated no intention of engaging with Carney during the Malaysia summit, he criticized the advertisement featuring Reagan’s anti-tariff stance as potentially artificial. Upon learning of Ontario’s decision to withdraw the ad, Trump criticized it as “dirty playing” and warned of retaliatory actions.
A senior federal official, speaking on background during the flight to Malaysia, mentioned scheduled bilateral discussions with key ASEAN countries. The complexity of negotiations stems from the varying economic development levels and regulatory frameworks among ASEAN members.
Carney has emphasized the importance of identifying opportunities to drive economic growth for Canadian businesses. Analysts suggest that Canada should anticipate gradual achievements rather than major breakthroughs at the ASEAN summit.
