Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has outlined his plan to deal with US President Donald Trump’s trade threats and help Canada navigate economic tensions with its largest trading partner.
Speaking at a campaign event in Toronto on Wednesday, Poilievre emphasized that his election campaign won’t focus solely on the US tariff threat, despite growing concerns among Canadian voters.
Poilievre’s plan includes pushing for an immediate renegotiation of the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which is scheduled for review in 2026. He proposed that both countries pause tariffs during negotiations and suggested implementing “targeted, reciprocal” counter-tariffs on American goods that Canadians can source elsewhere, rather than broad dollar-for-dollar retaliation.
The Conservative leader also committed to establishing a business liquidity support program to help companies affected by the trade dispute maintain their workforce during economic uncertainty. He compared this approach to programs deployed during previous financial crises.
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Shortly after Prime Minister Mark Carney said he would not repeal Bill C-69, Poilievre pledged to create an “economic fortress” by expanding oil and gas development, accelerating pipeline construction, and reducing dependency on the American market by increasing exports to other countries.
He promised that all revenue from expanded Canada-US trade would be directed toward military spending to meet NATO commitments.
Poilievre identified several “red lines” in future negotiations, stating Canada must maintain control over its borders, fresh water, automotive industry, and supply-managed agricultural sectors. He emphasized that Canada’s sovereignty is non-negotiable.
The Conservative leader has deliberately avoided direct contact with the Trump administration, saying he doesn’t want to “divide Canada’s voice” during ongoing trade tensions. This approach differs from former Opposition leader Brian Mulroney, who engaged with the Reagan administration before taking office.
Both Poilievre and Carney have positioned themselves as best equipped to handle relations with Trump. Ontario Treasury Board president Caroline Mulroney endorsed Poilievre at the Toronto event, highlighting his ability to channel Canadians’ frustration into positive action for the country.
The most recent Angus Reid poll, taken before Poilievre’s plans were announced, shows that 56% of respondents believe Carney is more equipped to handle Trump, and 56% believe Poilievre is more likely to divide Canadians.
Canadian voters will head to the polls on April 28 amid escalating trade tensions and Trump’s announcement of sweeping global tariffs.
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One Response
So he has made Alberta happy in his pledge, and is going to pay for the expanded pipelines how (if he can negotiate this across the country at all) and will put all of the revenue from expanded Canada US trade towards our military to meet our NATO commitments. Hmm. I thought we were meant to diversify our markets, not expand and rely on our biggest trading partner (USA). Which is it Pierre? But you will expand those markets away from the US. Hmm. It is like the only good you can see that Canadians produce. This is not diversification. I like your business liquidity support program. Sounds like the package the feds already have in place but your idea might well be better fleshed out.