CA participated in an update from the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) on the efforts of their recent delegation to Washington DC on tariffs and the trade war. Led by CME President & CEO Dennis Darby (a former Chair of Cosmetics Alliance), participants shared their experience and insights following numerous meetings with officials, Representatives, Senators, or their staff, including both Democrats and Republicans.
Delegates reported that Canada remains well regarded and that most hope for a quick resolution to the current trade crisis and a return to “normal” relations. Many indicated that they are getting lots of feedback from their constituents expressing concern. There was also some surprise at the backlash in Canada.
Both Democrats and Republicans, from the House and Senate, indicated that they are NOT being kept “in-the-loop” by the White House and don’t really know what Trump will do next. The advice being offered was that if you want to know what is going on, watch social media.
There was also a sense from political staffers that they could not understand or see what Trump’s off ramp might be, and that he might just be looking for a “big shiny announcement”. As Dennis Darby pointed out, this may be to get the NAFTA (CUSMA) re-negotiation underway that could provide a framework for some greater certainty.
A significant observation shared by the delegation was that what is happening now in the markets in more influential and important than fear of the mid-term elections in 2026. The advice being offered, we must continue to PUSH our U.S. counterparts – including CEO’s – to stand up to the tariffs and trade war.
