Canada explores EU associate membership as US trade ties fray

Canada is exploring becoming an associate member of the European Union, a move driven by worsening trade relations with the United States. The Wall Street Journal reported the EU is open to creating this new status for Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney seeks closer economic and strategic ties, with discussions covering freer movement of goods, services, and workers in sectors like energy, AI, and critical minerals. The initiative follows tariffs on billions in cross-border trade since President Trump's return. The EU has historically been reluctant to change membership rules, and even the existing Canada-EU trade deal faces ratification hurdles in several member states. Carney has also discussed visa-free living and work arrangements with EU leaders.