Canadian trade officials are set to convene with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington once more as both parties aim to finalize a critical trade agreement before the looming tariff deadline imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc’s office confirmed to CBC News that he, along with chief trade negotiator Janice Charette, will engage in discussions with Greer later today. This meeting marks the second encounter this week between Canadian and American representatives and the fourth within a span of just three weeks.

Negotiations have intensified following Trump’s threat to impose 50 percent duties on numerous Canadian products, in addition to existing sectoral tariffs. The scheduled implementation date for these tariffs is August 19. Sources indicate that the U.S. proposed adjustments to certain sectoral tariffs on Tuesday, falling short of Canada’s desired reductions. Furthermore, the U.S. is pushing for a comprehensive deal encompassing preferential access to Canadian critical minerals, as well as provisions on security and energy.

Reports suggest that LeBlanc and Greer aim to present Trump with a potential trade agreement outline as early as Monday. However, Canadian officials have strongly conveyed to their American counterparts that should the August 19 tariffs be enforced, there will be little support among Canadians to continue negotiations. The ongoing trade tensions stem from various trade disputes, including Canada’s response to U.S. trade policies by removing U.S. alcohol from provincial stores, alleged discriminatory practices against U.S. motor vehicles and dairy.

Industry insiders suggest that Canada is willing to address some of these issues, including potentially lifting the alcohol bans, revising tariffs on U.S. automobiles, and making adjustments in the dairy sector. Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed willingness to reintroduce U.S. alcohol in the province if a fair deal safeguarding Ontario’s key sectors is reached. Ford emphasized that tariffs on Canada essentially impact American consumers, urging action against such measures. Additionally, Quebec’s stance on the alcohol bans aligns with Ontario’s position, emphasizing the need for fair negotiations before reinstating U.S. alcohol in Quebec outlets.