New U.S. tariffs paused – for now. How did we get here?
Aug 19, 2026 · 25m
Summary
Host Jamie Plon and business correspondent Peter Armstrong discuss the urgent negotiations between Canada and the US to avert new tariffs. They analyze the economic impact on key sectors like autos, steel, and softwood lumber, noting that the proposed measures would disproportionately affect Ontario, Quebec, and BC. The conversation highlights major sticking points, including rules of origin for auto parts and dairy access, while also examining how Canadian consumer boycotts of American alcohol and tourism have influenced the diplomatic landscape.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Pura fragrance system
Intro: Trump pauses tariffs for 3 days
Setting the scene: Recording during breaking news
Business anxiety and the uncertainty of the deadline
Economic impact: GDP hit and targeted sectors
Regional disparities: Ontario, Quebec, and BC
Political division strategy and ripple effects
US domestic pain: Battleground states and bourbon
Effectiveness of Canadian boycotts and booze ban
Sponsor: Pura fragrance system
Sponsor: CBC Uncover podcast
Negotiation background: LeBlanc and Greer meetings
Canadian goals: Sectoral tariffs and USMCA
US demands: Removing the provincial booze ban
Sticking points: Auto parts and dairy access
Softwood lumber dispute and $11B in deposits
Where talks broke down: Auto industry specifics
Profit margins and the ceiling for tariffs
Strategic outlook: Dividing Canadians and deal value
Closing remarks and preview of next episode
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