US blames Canada for failed trade talks, threatens escalation

The United States has blamed Canada for the collapse of trade negotiations and threatened escalation, with the US Trade Representative warning of retaliatory bans. The talks failed despite Washington claiming it offered the "best deal in the world." Jamieson Greer told CBC News that Canada is now the only country besides China imposing counter-restrictions, noting that a resolution with Beijing was reached. He criticized Canadian provincial bans on US alcohol and auto imports, stating Washington never enacted similar prohibitions but "maybe we should." Greer said contacts between trade agencies have fully stopped after Canada added demands deemed unacceptable. New 50% US tariffs on Canada took effect August 22, prompting Canada to announce $20 billion in retaliatory duties on American goods.